§ Mr. ForsytheTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions which organisations applied to be designated to recognise persons as approved contractors under clause 1(2)(b) of the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999, what are the criteria for the award and removal of such designation and recognition; and when and with whom he will be consulting on the matter. [96752]
§ Mr. MullinThe Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 created, for the first time, the legal concept of an approved contractor in relation to installing water fittings. My officials have discussed the terms of approved contractor schemes with a number of professional and training bodies. The Water Regulations Advisory Committee advise Ministers on these issues. Schemes should be compatible with those to be introduced by the water undertakers under Regulation 1(2)(a). The Water Regulations Advisory Scheme will be consulted accordingly. The Institute of Plumbing have applied to be designated to recognise persons as approved contractors, and officials have held an exploratory discussion with them.