Written question asked by Harry Cohen (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 23 April 1996. It was answered by James Clappison (Conservative) on Tuesday, 23 April 1996 on behalf of the Department of the Environment.

Dept of the Environment

Question: What research his department has (a) commissioned and (b) evaluated into the connection between rising groundwater and water lost through leaks from water company pipes.

Answer: Mr. Cohen: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what research his Department has (a) commissioned and (b) evaluated into the connection between rising groundwater and water lost through leaks from water company pipes; and if he will make a statement.[25714] Mr. Clappison: None. Although most water leaking from the distribution system is likely to find its way into groundwater, it is unlikely to contribute significantly to rising levels of groundwater in the London area, where water in the distribution system is generally drawn from groundwater. The rise in groundwater levels in London is believed to be due chiefly to the reduction in abstractions for industrial purposes.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 25714; 276 c61W;276 c63W
Session: 1995-96
Subjects: Distribution Natural resources Water Water supply Research Ground water