Written question asked by Hugh Robertson (Conservative) on Wednesday, 19 April 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 24 April 2006. It was answered by Elliot Morley (Labour) on Wednesday, 26 April 2006 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Sporting Facilities (Drought Orders)

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will take steps to exempt (a) county cricket clubs and (b) community sports facilities from drought orders; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: [holding answer 24 April 2006]: I recognise that any drought order made to restrict use of water may impact on how sporting facilities and clubs maintain their grounds. However, serious drought is an exceptional event and provisions must be in place to allow water companies to fulfil their duty to supply water to domestic customers.Drought orders can be made only after careful consideration of all the issues raised by objectors to an application. A hearing will normally be held by an independent Inspector appointed by the Secretary of State. Objectors have the opportunity to be heard by the Inspector. In determining the application the Secretary of State will take into account the objections raised and the Inspector's recommendations.

Secondary information