§ 9. Mr. Abseasked the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had on the issue of the incineration of kepone at the Re-chem factory in Pontypool; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MorrisI am in continuous touch with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment, and my Department is maintaining close liaison with the Health and Safety Executive.
§ Mr. AbseIn the representations that I trust the Secretary of State is making, will he emphasise to the Secretary of State for the Environment, as he is contemplating whether to allow the importation of this material, that when no State of the United States of America will permit the incineration of kepone upon its soil, the whole community of my valley is determined not to become the guinea pigs?
Will the Secretary of State explain to the Secretary of State for the Environment that in Wales, where we are just clearing away the debris created by British capitalism in the last industrial revolution, no area will be more resistant to the idea that the reckless and irresponsible consequences of American capitalism should now be dumped into the middle of our valley?
§ Mr. MorrisMy hon. Friend has made representations to me, to my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary and I am sure to others on this subject. He will be aware that the proposal at present is subject to a Health and Safety Executive prohibition notice which will not be lifted until my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment and I are completely satisfied that the disposal can go ahead without causing any environmental damage. I am fully aware of the position outlined by my hon. Friend.