To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs with reference to the answer of 16 June 2009, Official Report, column 156W, on rodents, whether his Department has reviewed the revised sewer protocols of Thames Water and Yorkshire Water and their respective local authorities; and if he will make a statement. (302784)

DEFRA has not reviewed the revised sewer protocols of Thames Water and Yorkshire Water and their respective local authorities. The protocols provide a mechanism for improved communication and co-ordination between the two privatised water companies and their respective local authorities with regard to the control of rats in sewers.