§ Mr. GreenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he will publish the draft guidelines on the Groundwater Regulations; and if he will make a statement. [100073]
§ Mr. MullinThe Groundwater Regulations 1998 came into effect on 1 April this year. Guidance on the Regulations was available at that time from the Environment Agency, and further guidance has been drawn up in the light of experience during the first months of practical implementation. A draft of this further guidance, which explains the operation and application of the Regulations, is now being sent out for public consultation to a wide range of consultees. Comments are invited by 29 February 2000. Copies of the draft guidance have been placed in the Libraries of the House.