HC Deb 02 December 1968 vol 774 cc1026-7
42. Mr. John Hall

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what estimate he has made of the amount of carbon monoxide discharged into the atmosphere each year; at what rate he estimates that it will increase; and what accumulative effect he estimates that it will have on health.

Mr. Crossman

None, Sir. I understand that such an estimate would have little practical value. The total amount discharged is likely to increase broadly in accordance with any increase in the output from petrol-driven vehicles. No cumulative effects on health are expected.

Mr. Hall

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that an increasing number of people are becoming alarmed about air pollution? Can he give a categorical assurance to the House and to the country that the build-up of carbon monoxide, due to the increasing number of vehicles on the road, is not likely to provide a hazard to health?

Mr. Crossman

Yes. I have just given it.