§ Mr. Canavanasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received about licensing arrangements for the disposal of the American insecticide Kepone in the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. ShoreI have answered eight Questions on matters arising out of the proposal to import a quantity of Kepone for incineration in this country and have received more than a dozen letters. Although most have expressed or implied disquiet over the proposal none has represented that existing controls are inadequate. Meanwhile, as my hon. Friend will be aware, the Health and Safety Executive has issued a prohibition notice to prevent the disposal of the chemical at the Pontypool plant for which it had been destined. That prohibition notice will not be lifted unless and until I and my right hon and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Wales are fully satisfied that the disposal could go ahead without causing any environmental damage.