In highlighting the high priority of the Coal Authority's current minewater treatment programme, Energy Minister John Battle has strengthened the role the Authority will play in preventing polluting minewater, from recently abandoned mines, reaching sensitive watercourses, as well as dealing with pollution that has occurred from long-abandoned mines.

Funding for the minewater programme will be separated to ensure that the programme is not disrupted by other demands on the Authority's budget.

Mr. Battle has set out the Government's commitment to the Authority's programme of preventing and treating significant water pollution from abandoned coal mines. The programme will also include research and monitoring to be carried out in close collaboration with the Environment Agency and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency.