§ 30. Mr. Robert Syms (Poole)What recent representations he has received on the use of hydrofluorocarbons at the millennium dome. [50798]
§ The Minister without Portfolio (Mr. Peter Mandelson)I have recently received a number of representations from members of the public, via their Members of Parliament, about the use of HFCs in the air cooling system at the millennium dome.
§ Mr. SymsDoes not the Minister think that it is a shame that we are using HFCs, which result in global 14 warming, in what should be a major flagship project? Natural alternatives are available, so will he reconsider the decision or leave a note for his successor to do so?
§ Mr. MandelsonI am glad to say that I shall be leaving any notes on the dome for myself. The hon. Gentleman should bear in mind the fact that HFC refrigerants are a widely used alternative to the less environmentally friendly chlorofluorocarbons and hydrochlorofluorocarbons—CFCs and HCFCs. I accept that that procurement, with its use of HFC refrigerants, has not met with universal approval, but the company believes that the chiller units selected offer the safest and most flexible solution, given the time and budgetary constraints under which we are operating. The company has set a target that HFC emissions from the units will not exceed 1 per cent., which more than meets the provisions of the voluntary agreement between the Government and the refrigeration industry, which cites emissions of 10 per cent. So, that is pretty good doing for the dome.