§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what initiative he has taken to ensure cleaner beaches in Wales; and if he will make a statement. [45882]
§ Mr. Win GriffithsThe Government are committed to complying with the EC Bathing Water Directive (76/160/EEC). Last year 60 of the 64 EC identified bathing waters on the Welsh coastline met the mandatory bacteriological standards set in the Directive. This compliance rate of 94 per cent. was the highest ever achieved in Wales.
Earlier this month 13 Welsh beaches were awarded Blue Flags. This is also the highest level ever achieved in Wales. To be eligible for Blue Flag status, water quality must attain the even more stringent guideline standards set in the EC Directive, as well as meeting various land based criteria. 31 of the 64 EC identified bathing waters monitored in Wales in 1997 met the guideline standards. The Welsh Office fully supports the aim of the Green Sea Initiative to achieve 50 Blue Flags in Wales.