§ Mr. AltonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what studies have been made or commissioned by his Department on the pollution caused by the burning of lignite coal.
§ Mr. NeedhamThere is ample precedent in West Germany and elsewhere for burning lignite as fuel in power stations. Any new power stations in Northern Ireland would be required to meet the emission standards for sulphur dioxide nitrogen oxides and particulates specified by the Northern Ireland alkali and radiochemical inspectorate. These standards would reflect the latest abatement technology, national policy, and the need for compliance with EC directives.