§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he is taking to monitor the lead level of children living in the area of roads with heavy traffic; what attempts he is making to warn parents of the dangers of lead in the atmosphere; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FoxChildren living near busy roads are included in the survey being carried out as part of the EEC programme of biological screening of the population for lead; the report which I
840WThe figures are based upon the information collected by the Department of Employment for the general index of retail prices which does not distinguish between gas used for central heating or other specific purposes and only a single figure is available. A similar situation exists for the case of heating oils where the same source quotes only a single overall price.
placed in the Library on 15 November includes results for two such groups. Local authorities also carry out monitoring surveys where appropriate.
The implications of environmental lead fom all souces and whether further action or advice is needed will be considered when the expert working party which is due to report to my right. hon. Friend the Secretary of of State for Social Services has completed its work.