Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, with reference to the low levels of rainfall in the South of England in the last six months, what discussions she has had with (a) the Environment Agency and (b) water utility companies on drought preparedness and water resilience planning; and if she will make a statement.

Although overall rainfall for November 2016 was above average, prolonged dry weather from July to October has resulted in some rivers, groundwater and surface reservoirs at, or below, normal levels as we approach the end of the year. The Environment Agency is closely monitoring the water resources situation in England, together with water companies, and has been providing regular updates to the Department on the situation.

All water companies in England have a statutory requirement to prepare, maintain and revise drought plans and long-term water resources management plans, setting out how they will ensure a secure supply of water. Most companies will consult on revised drought plans next year and their water resources management plans early in 2018. Water companies are currently discussing expectations for their revised plans with the Environment Agency and the Department.