§ Mr. ClaphamTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he has completed his review of the implications of the failed prosecution of South West Water in relation to the outbreak of cryptosporidium in the Torbay area in 1995; and if he will make a statement. [41216]
§ Mr. MeacherI have concluded that there is a case for increased monitoring at water treatment plants that are most at risk of releasing Cryptosporidium into drinking water supplies. I propose therefore to begin consultations on amendments to the Regulations on drinking water quality to require continuous monitoring of the treated water to detect Cryptosporidium at such plants. If this monitoring detects the presence of the organism at an unacceptable level, the Drinking Water Inspectorate will consider prosecution of the company. There would be a new criminal offence of failing to treat water to adequately remove Cryptosporidium oocysts. On conviction in a Crown Court, the offence would carry a penalty of an unlimited fine. The intention is to encourage the operation of water treatment plants in line with best practice, which should prevent Cryptosporidium in drinking water causing illness. I have arranged for a copy of the consultation paper on my proposals to be placed in the Library of the House.