HC Deb 10 May 1962 vol 659 cc615-6
14. Mr. Wainwright

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he has replied to the letter he has received from the Clerk of the Wathupon-Dearne Urban District Council regarding the complaints that council has received from residents in the Wathupon-Dearne area about the large emission of smoke gas and fumes from the Manvers Main carbonisation plant; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Rippon

The district alkali inspector discussed the position with the council on 11th April and a reply referring to this discussion was sent on 30th April. Emissions from coke ovens are an intractable problem, but there is room for improvement at this plant, and the Alkali Inspectorate will see that the necessary steps are taken.

Mr. Wainwright

I do not think the latter part of that Answer would meet with the satisfaction of all concerned. Will the Minister consult the Minister of Health and the National Coal Board and their experts on this issue to make sure that this horrible stench is removed, or reduced to the irreducible minimum? This is not just a question affecting the residents in Wath-upon-Dearne, for the Swinton Urban District Council is also greatly worried about the stench which comes from this plant. Will the hon. Gentleman not do more than he has said?

Mr. Rippon

It is true that other local authorities are worried and the district alkali inspector will have further discussions with them.