§ Mrs. Ray MichieTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to introduce guidelines for the siting of sewage plants in residential areas; and if he will make a statement. [35944]
§ Mr. MacdonaldI have no plans to introduce guidelines for the siting of sewage plants in residential areas. It is a matter for planning authorities to consider any planning applications for proposed sewage plants which come before them.
§ Mr. SandersTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland for what reasons his Department sets aside grant relief to domestic customers in respect of sewerage charges. [36041]
§ Mr. MacdonaldPrior to Scottish local government reorganisation in April 1996, expenditure on domestic sewerage was included in a householder's Council Tax bill. Since then the new water authorities have made a separate charge for the sewerage service. Transitional relief was introduced to give householders time to adjust to the new arrangements. This relief is being phased out.