To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when the Rattlechain chemical waste lagoon in Oldbury was last inspected by the Environment Agency; and what percentage of the waste in the lagoon was identified as yellow phosphorus in that inspection. [R] (278063)

The Environment Agency last inspected the Rattlechain chemical waste lagoon in Oldbury on 7 April 2009.

It is not possible to determine during an inspection the percentage of yellow phosphorus in the deposited waste. Much of the deposits are historic and underwater.

The site closed in March 2006. Analysis indicates a level of phosphorus in deposited calcium phosphate sludge to be in the order of 0.01 per cent.

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what discussions have taken place between the Environment Agency and representatives of Rhodia, Oldbury on the future of wildlife at the Rattlechain chemical waste lagoon. (278064)

The Environment Agency has had ongoing discussions with representatives of Rhodia on the future of the Rattlechain chemical waste lagoon and its associated wildlife since closure as an operational site in March 2006. The waste management licence for the site is, however, still in force and therefore Rhodia is still required to monitor and secure it.

The Environment Agency is currently discussing with Rhodia what would be required if the company were to surrender the licence.