§ Mr. McCrindleasked the Secretary of State for Transport what is his policy in relation to lead additives in petrol; what consultations are taking place with petrol companies to phase out the practice; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. William RodgersMy general aim in the light of medical advice is to ensure that total lead emissions from vehicles do not, due to increase in traffic, exceed the level reached in 1971. In line with that aim we have been seeking agreement in the EEC to a general reduction to 0.40 grammes per litre in the maximum permitted lead content of petrol. Negotiations on this are now well advanced, and there have been regular consultations with industry.