HC Deb 01 December 1965 vol 721 c1414
15. Mr. Philip Noel-Baker

asked the Minister of Transport what reports he has received about the successful use of after-burners for the elimination of diesel fumes from heavy road vehicles; and whether he will inquire into the action taken by the Californian State Legislature, with a view to similar action in this country.

Mr. Swingler

We are advised that proper maintenance and adjustment is a better means of preventing smoke from diesel engines than the use of afterburners.

We have no information at present about legislation in respect of afterburners on diesel engines in California, but we are making inquiries.

Mr. Noel-Baker

I thank my hon. Friend for that Answer. is he aware that the legislation proposed in California is to cover not only diesel but petrol fumes from ordinary motor cars? Is he aware that a number of European countries are getting effective results with diesel fumes by imposing suitable penalties on the owners of vehicles which are not properly maintained?

Mr. Swingler

Yes, Sir. We are aware of the methods being used on petrol engines in California, but we have not yet received information about the legislation. We are preparing a British Standard for diesel engines and in the testing scheme for goods vehicles checks on smoke from diesel fumes will be included.