HC Deb 17 May 1972 vol 837 cc517-9
26. Mr. Sydney Chapman

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what study his Department is undertaking into checking the increased atmospheric pollution from vehicle exhausts in areas affected by new urban motorways, with particular reference to north-west Birmingham.

Mr. Eldon Griffiths

Under a contract from my Department's Transport and Road Research Laboratory and the City of Birmingham Public Health Department, the University of Aston is to undertake research into the levels of atmospheric pollutants emitted by motor vehicles at the Gravelly Hill motorway interchange from the time when it is opened by my right hon. Friend later this month.

Mr. Chapman

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for that reply. Does he realise that, when his right hon. Friend opens what has become known as the missing link on the M6 next week, I shall hold the dubious distinction of having a constituency which is almost totally encircled by urban motorways? There is genuine concern among my constituents about the level of atmospheric pollution. Will my hon. Friend make sure that the results of the survey are published and that there is open discussion of them?

Mr. Griffiths

Yes, Sir. I assure my hon. Friend that lead, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, oxides of nitrogen and, as necessary, total oxidants will be monitored, and I am sure that my right hon. Friend will wish discussions to take place afterwards.

Mr. Carter-Jones

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that these questions reveal considerable concern about the noise and pollution of vehicles? Will he speed up the studies, extend them beyond the Birmingham area to the whole of the country, consider particularly lorry drivers, other road users and the people who live in the areas and please give top priority to this?

Mr. Griffiths

Yes, Sir, my right hon. Friend and indeed other Departments of Government are very conscious of the need to have effective monitoring and evaluation of all forms of environmental pollution.