Rivers likely to fail water quality tests

The UK Environment Minister Elliot Morley warned on 5 October 2004 that most of England's rivers and lakes will fail stringent new tests for water quality unless 'diffuse' pollution mainly caused by farmers is reduced drastically. At present, 95% of rivers and 82% of lakes would not meet new standards being introduced under the European Union's Water Framework Directive.

European Commission: DG Environment: Policies: Water policy in the European Union http://ec.europa.eu/comm/environment/water/

Department for Food, Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA): Press Release: New water quality measurements will ensure health of our waters, 5.10.04 http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/latest/2004/water-041005.htm

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