HC Deb 08 May 1972 vol 836 cc884-5
7. Mr. Carter

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what study he has made of the economic effects on the car industry of proposals for legislation requiring greater pollution control: and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Anthony Grant

The only proposal so far announced is the control of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon exhaust emission from cars. It will have little effect on car prices and no adverse economic effect on the industry. Full account will be taken of the economic effects of any further proposals.

Mr. Carter

Does the hon. Gentleman not agree that there is considerable international agreement on the need to control pollution from motor cars? Will he therefore enter into early negotiations with the industry to ensure that legislation can be introduced at the earliest opportunity? In doing so, will he bear in mind that any increase in the manufacturing input into motor cars would greatly increase the number of employment opportunities in the motor-car industry?

Mr. Grant

I appreciate what the hon. Gentleman says. The Department of the Environment takes the lead in this issue, but my Department works in close cooperation with that Department, and I can assure the hon. Gentleman that there will be the fullest possible consultation with industry before the new measures are announced.

Mr. Biffen

In the consultations which the Minister will be having with the Department of the Environment, will he point out that the motorist is already a fairly heavily laden member of society and that any inhibitions laid upon motor manufacturers should derive from proven health hazards and not from any trendy concern with pollution?

Mr. Grant

I can assure the hon. Gentleman that I will convey those remarks to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment.