§ Sir Teddy TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment she has made of the reasons for changes in the level of nitrate pollution in public water supplies; and what steps are being taken to reduce levels. [167020]
§ Mr. MorleyUnusual meteorological conditions caused an increase in nitrate levels in 2001. Results for 2002 show a significant improvement. We are supporting water company schemes for nitrate removal in the current periodic review of water price limits, provided there is sound evidence of the likelihood of future failures.