asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he expects to come to a decision on the application made by the Yorkshire Water Authority to extend designated rivers within Yorkshire.

The Yorkshire Water Authority is having discussions with a number of organisations which have lodged objections against the proposed extension of main rivers. Some objections have already been withdrawn and it is hoped that the remainder will be resolved by discussion. If it proves impossible for the parties concerned to reach agreement my right hon. Friend will have to consider the outstanding objections in accordance with the procedure prescribed in the Land Drainage Act 1976.