Written question asked by Anthony Steen (Conservative) on Tuesday, 11 May 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 19 May 2004. It was answered by Elliot Morley (Labour) on Wednesday, 19 May 2004 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, what steps have been taken to amend the Sludge (Use in Agriculture) Regulations 1989 to incorporate a safe barrier between agricultural fields treated with sewage sludge and residential homes; and if she will make a statement. - (Holding answer 18 May 2004).

Answer: Mr. Steen: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps have been taken to amend the Sludge (Use in Agriculture) Regulations 1989 to incorporate a safe barrier between agricultural fields treated with sewage sludge and residential homes; and if she will make a statement. [173432] Mr. Morley: [holding answer 18 May 2004]: The Sludge (Use in Agriculture) Regulations 1989, as amended, ensure that recycling sludge to agricultural land is carried out in a way that protects human and animal health and the environment. Proposed revisions to the regulations will introduce additional requirements to protect further against the entry of pathogens into the food chain. These requirements are already being followed on a voluntary basis by the water industry. The non-statutory Code of Practice for Agriculture Use of Sewage Sludge, which is also under revision, includes recommendations on environmental protection relating to odour control and proximity to properties.

Secondary information