§ 51. Mr. Longdenasked the Minister of Transport what action the Government are now taking to prevent the discharge of excessive exhaust fumes from motor vehicles, especially those with diesel engines.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Mr. Stephen Swingler)I would refer the hon. Member to the Answer given to him and my hon. Friend the Member for Sheffield, Attercliffe (Mr. John Hynd) on 8th March and also that given to the hon. Member for Wembley, South (Sir R. Russell) on 11th November.—[Vol. 742, c. 282.] [Vol. 735, c. 384.]
§ Mr. LongdenHow has the research into this matter conducted by the Economic Council for Europe been getting on? Although there is some dispute about the effects of these fumes on cancer, our air would obviously be better without them. Cannot the hon. Gentleman do something to get rid of them?
§ Mr. SwinglerA considerable amount of research is being done here under national and under private auspices, and also in other countries. We are taking account of all this. As my right hon. Friend has said, if the result of this research shows a need for new regulations, she will not hesitate to make them.
§ Mr. WebsterIs the hon. Gentleman content that the weight-power ratio as now laid down in the regulations is satisfactory?
§ Mr. SwinglerAs the hon. Gentleman will know, we are discussing this matter with the manufacturers and we aim to get a satisfactory ratio.