§ Lord Greavesasked Her Majesty's Government:
Which bodies are responsible for monitoring runoff and seepage from the clinker and residues resulting from burning dead farm animals, and from burying such animals, during the current foot and mouth outbreak; what resources are being devoted to such monitoring; and whether they are satisfied there is no resulting health risk. [HL1760]
§ Baroness HaymanClinker and residues (ash) from burning are gathered up and buried either on site or elsewhere with the agreement of the Environment Agency. The Environment Agency is responsible for monitoring run-off and seepage from burning and burial sites. Both burning and burial sites are subject to EA risk assessment before permission is given to MAFF for such burning or burial to take place. Authorisation under the Groundwater Regulations will take into account the assessment of risks to controlled waters and to public and private water 85WA supplies. The regulations require "requisite surveillance" of groundwater in respect of an authorisation and the Environment Agency may therefore impose monitoring conditions. Such monitoring may be undertaken by the Environment Agency or MAFF. Local authorities advise on the risk of air pollution from burning and the Department of Health/local public health medical officers are also involved.