To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) what discussions he has had with the water industry regarding proposals for a national water grid; and if he will make a statement; (82576)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given on 16 June 2006, Official Report, column 1448W.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what plans he has to consult the water industry on national water plans. (82853)

A meeting with representatives from across the water industry was held on 1 June, to discuss the provision of water resources over the short, medium and long term.

All water companies have water resources plans, which reconcile supply and anticipated demand over a 25-year horizon, in their own areas of supply.

The production and maintenance of water resources management plans will become a statutory requirement under the Water Act 2003. A consultation on the proposed water resources management plans regulations was held between 31 January 2006 and 25 April 2006. The consultees included water companies. The new regime will commence in April 2007.