Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 4 March 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 12 March 2003. It was answered by Elliot Morley (Labour) on Wednesday, 12 March 2003 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if she will take steps to assist householders, particularly those on a low income, who wish (a) to test their domestic drinking water systems to ensure that they are free from lead contamination and (b) to replace or repair domestic drinking water systems contaminated by lead solder.

Answer: Norman Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will take steps to assist householders, particularly those on a low income, who wish (a) to test their domestic drinking water systems to ensure that they are free from lead contamination and (b) to replace or repair domestic drinking water systems contaminated by lead solder. [101679] Mr. Morley: Water companies will normally test water supplies, free of charge, if consumers are concerned that lead pipes might be contaminating their drinking water. In properties built before 1970, the main reasons for lead in drinking water are lead connections to the mains and the internal plumbing. The use of lead based solders for domestic hot and cold water systems has been banned since 1987. It is very rare for lead solder on drinking water pipes to be the sole reason for a breach of drinking water quality standards.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 101679; 401 c264W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Contamination Households Government assistance Drinking water Lead Low incomes Water supply
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk