§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how much acid rain was monitored in each year from 1988 to 1991; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MacleanThe mean concentrations of the contaminants, which contribute to the acidity of rain across the United Kingdom. from 1988 to 1991 are as follows:
Mean precipitation concentration, µeq/l Contaminant 1988 1989 1990 1991 Hydrogen ion 27.4 23.9 19.6 24.0 Ammonium 24.3 26.5 22.8 29.4 Chloride (non-marine) 7.2 4.3 4.8 1.3 Sulphate (non-marine) 40.6 37.07 31.8 38.5 Nitrate 21.4 21.3 17.0 22.5 Major reductions are anticipated in rain concentrations of sulphate and nitrate in future years following reductions in SO2 and NOx emissions secured through the implementation of the European Communities large combustion plants directive and directives on vehicle exhaust emissions.