Written question asked by Michael Alison (Conservative), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 22 January 1997. It was answered by James Clappison (Conservative) on Wednesday, 22 January 1997 on behalf of the Department of the Environment.

Dept of the Environment

Question: If he will instruct the Environment Agency to study the increase in the variety of fish life which can be supported in the tidal reaches of the River Ouse in North Yorkshire, and publish the results with particular reference to the vicinity of Cawood, since the implementation of required European water quality standards.

Answer: Mr. Alison: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will instruct the Environment Agency to study the increase in the variety of fish life which can be supported in the tidal reaches of the River Ouse in North Yorkshire, and publish the results with particular reference to the vicinity of Cawood, since the implementation of required European water quality standards. [11652] Mr. Clappison: The physical nature of the River Ouse at Cawood is not conducive to sustaining significant fish populations, because of high levels of natural suspended solids and the strong tidal currents which exist. The Environment Agency is, however, implementing a strategy for improvements in quality to the discharges in the Selby area. One of the aims is to improve dissolved oxygen levels to allow the passage of migratory fish.

Secondary information