§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is satisfied with the arrangements for monitoring fumes from commercial stacks; what is the division of responsibility between the Alkali Inspectorate and local authorities; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Eldon GriffithsMany kinds of fumes emitted from works registered under the Alkali etc. Works Regulation Act 1906 are regularly monitored by the Alkali and Clean Air Inspectorate with reference to fixed standards, while the remainder are kept under observation and monitored as often as necessary. I am satisfied that these arrangements generally work well but will be glad to look into any particular problems that are the responsibility of the inspectorate 273W which the hon. Gentleman may have in mind. With regard to the supervision of emissions from non-registered industries, which is the responsibility of the local authorities, there is no general power to monitor fumes, as opposed to grit and dust, but my right hon. and learned Friend is currently considering making use of his powers under Section 7 of the Clean Air Act 1968 to apply the monitoring provisions of that Act and of the 1956 Act to metallurgical fumes from cold blast cupolas.