Parliament Workbench
Data: Motions & questions to 19 Nov 2026

Written Question · S1W-33370 · Session 1

What action is currently being taken by Scottish Water to reduce the level of lead content in water supplies.

Answered Asked by Robert Brown LD Lodged 22 Jan 2003

The question

To ask the Scottish Executive what action is currently being taken by Scottish Water to reduce the level of lead content in water supplies.

The answer

Answered by Ross Finnie on 3 Feb 2003 · 12 days after it was lodged, on time

This is a matter for Scottish Water. I have asked Jon Hargreaves, Chief Executive of Scottish Water to respond. His response is as follows:Through regular sampling of drinking water supplies, Scottish Water identifies areas where water is picking up lead from old plumbing and treats the water so it is not absorbing so much lead. When renewing old water mains, Scottish Water replaces the part of any of their lead service pipes that have been uncovered. They advise customers about lead in private pipework and steps that can be taken to reduce any risk. When a customer replaces their private lead pipes, Scottish Water also removes any lead pipes that are their responsibility. In addition, Scottish Water is working closely with the Scottish Executive to develop a long-term strategy to reduce lead in drinking water supplies.

In the Official Report

No contribution in the Official Report cites S1W-33370 by reference.