§ 1. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he is satisfied with the administration of the Clean Air Act and with the results obtained; what further action it is intended to take; and by what date it is expected that the air in this country will compare with the best in other industrial countries and cities.
§ The Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs (Mr. Henry Brooke)An encouraging start has been made. But I should like to see faster progress in the worst polluted parts of England and Wales, and that is why I have asked the local authorities concerned to let me know their plans for speeding up the creation of smoke control areas. How soon we shall make the air in this country as clean as the best in other industrial countries I cannot say, but I intend to press on.
§ Mr. Ellis SmithIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is great disappointment and frustration among all sections of the community within a 50-mile radius of Manchester, and that feeling is such that the Lancashire Federation of Trades Councils is considering inviting authorities from Pittsburgh? If that invitation is made, will the Minister co-operate?
§ Mr. BrookeI did not hear every word of the hon. Member's supplementary question, but if he was asking me whether I will use any powers or influence I can to get the air cleaner, whether around Manchester or elsewhere, the answer is "Yes".
§ Mr. NabarroWill my right hon. Friend bear in mind that no permanent solution to pollution of the atmosphere is possible until energetic steps are taken to deal with the emission of noxious and asphyxiating fumes from diesel oil road vehicles? Will he impress on his right hon. Friend the Minister of Works the urgent need for intensive research by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research towards that aspect of the problem?
§ Mr. BrookeThat is a matter which I hope to discuss with the Clean Air Council before long.
§ Mr. NabarroI am very much obliged.