CHAPTER 3: Conclusions and Recommendations
53. We trust that Defra, the Devolved Administrations
and the three Agencies will make all possible efforts to implement
their obligations according to the schedule and the substance
of the Water Framework Directive. (Paragraph 15)
54. We also urge the Government to take action
on the matters raised by the Commission in its Report on the implementation
thus far of the Water Framework Directive. (Paragraph 16)
55. We note the importance of effective co-operation
between the Devolved Administrations and are pleased to hear that
such co-operation appears to be taking place. (Paragraph 17)
56. We hope that the work involved in arriving
at a satisfactory definition of "good status" will be
completed in a timely manner in order that all concerned can make
the necessary preparations. (Paragraph 22)
57. We urge the Government to clarify as soon
as possible what are considered to be disproportionate costs for
the purposes of Article 4. We consider too that the flexibility
provision must be applied responsibly, recalling that it provides
a temporary derogation rather than a long term exemption. (Paragraph
26)
58. The Government should work more closely with
local authorities and ensure that local authorities have the necessary
guidance in order to fulfil their role in relation to the Water
Framework Directive, particularly with regard to local planning
policies. (Paragraph 31)
59. The agricultural industry has a key role
to play in ensuring the success of the Water Framework Directive.
We urge the Government to work closely with the agricultural industry
to overcome potential obstacles, including diffuse pollution,
to the meeting of the Water Framework Directive's objectives.
(Paragraph 36)
60. We welcome the fact that, since both Defra
and the Environment Agency gave oral evidence to us, the former
has launched a public consultation on both diffuse pollution and
on hydromorphology. (Paragraph 37)
61. On the basis of the evidence provided by
Defra and the Environment Agency and in view of the Report by
the European Commission, we conclude that the public participation
obligations prescribed in the Water Framework Directive are being
met. Nevertheless, we consider it important that this aspect should
be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure that all those wishing
to participate are able to do so in an informed manner. (Paragraph
41)
62. We believe that the approach taken by Defra
and the Environment Agency should be driven by the principle that
the greater the public participation over and above the legal
requirements, the greater the likelihood of success in implementing
the Water Framework Directive. (Paragraph 42)
63. We agree that a proportional approach must
be taken to the new Priority Substances Directive. In line with
the Water Framework Directive, it is appropriate to apply to the
Priority Substances Directive the flexibility enshrined within
Article 4 of the Water Framework Directive. (Paragraph 51)
64. Our assessment of the implementation of the
Framework Directive thus far indicates that the standards laid
down must be transposable into reality, taking into account the
complexities of delivering this legislation. We hope that the
experience gained from implementing the first stages of the Water
Framework Directive will provide a constructive input into the
negotiations taking place in relation to the new Daughter Directive.
(Paragraph 52)
65. We are concerned that the general level of
information provided by the Member States in relation to priority
substances has been weak, and consider that the speedy adoption
of the Priority Substances Directive will strengthen implementation
of legislation in this area. (Paragraph 53)
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