HC Deb 11 June 1976 vol 912 cc784-5W
Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what research has been done into the effect of the discharge of waste products from galvanising plants on the health of the community.

Mr. Denis Howell

There is no medical evidence of any long-term hazard to health from emissions from these works. The industry has concentrated its effort on finding how best the discharges might be controlled so as to avoid any inconvenience to the community, and this work is still going on.

Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what advice he has given on the siting of galvanising plants arising from any research results that may be available.

Mr. Denis Howell

Galvanising is not a process registrable under the Alkali etc. Works Regulation Act 1906 and no specific advice on the siting of these plants has been given. I am considering the recommendations of the Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution that more guidance should be given to planning authorities on air pollution matters. There will be extensive consultation on these recommendations.