§ 18. Mr. Walter Johnsonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when he intends to hold the conference on the health hazards of lead compounds in engine exhausts.
§ Mr. AlisonThe subject was considered at a conference on "Lead in the Environment" held in January by the Institute of Petroleum, the Chemical Society and the British Occupational Hygiene Society and we see little point in duplicating these discussions.
§ Mr. JohnsonWith the ever-increasing number of cars on the roads this is becoming a very serious problem. The lead compounds emitted by engine exhausts are particularly harmful to children. Will the Under-Secretary tell the oil companies that they should reduce the level of lead additives in petrol to assist the situation?
§ Mr. AlisonThe last part of the question falls within the ambit of the Department of the Environment, but the hon. Member can rest assured that we are keeping a hawk-like eye upon the level of likely pollution in the environment arising from lead discharge.