30th June 2012 http://www.scotlink.org/files/policy/ConsultationResponses/LINKNVZConsResp0612.pdf
Scottish Environment LINK seeks a reduction in diffuse nitrate pollution from agriculture because of the long-term impact that this nutrient poses to biodiversity, ecosystem services and climate change mitigation. While we recognise and welcome the effort that is being invested by some land managers to reduce the input of nutrients to land, we are not aware of any data to indicate that nitrate levels are showing consistent or significant signs of improving. Therefore, any relaxation of requirements associated with the Action Programme and with the overall implementation of the Nitrates Directive would be wholly inappropriate at this stage.