§ Sir George Youngasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what initiatives Her Majesty's Government have taken to reduce emissions of sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides in the European Community.
§ Mr. WaldegraveIn its presidency role within the European Community, the United Kingdom tabled proposals with the aim of making progress on the draft Community directive on reducing emissions from large combustion plants. If accepted, these proposals would set Europe an ultimate goal of at least a 60 per cent. reduction in sulphur emissions. Regrettably, a number of countries found these proposals too onerous, and it was not possible to agree conclusion at the Council of Environment Ministers on 24 November. Nevertheless, the United Kingdom will continue to pursue throughout the presidency all prospects for progress on this important proposed directive.