§ Mr. John MarshallTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he is taking to regulate the sulphur content of domestic solid fuels.
§ Mr. MacleanMy Department has today issued a consultation document proposing a prohibition on the supply for domestic use of solid fuel with a sulphur content greater than 2 per cent. by weight. A copy has been placed in the Library of the House. The Government are firmly committed to controlling emissions of sulphur dioxide—SO2—a national and local level in order to protect human health and the environment. The proposed measure will help to contain SO2emissions, particularly in areas where extensive use is made of solid fuel. It will reinforce our work on improving air quality through the clean air Acts and contribute to our compliance with the mandatory European air quality standards.
The proposal has been endorsed by the statutory committee on hazardous substances as required under section 140 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Consultees have until 18 September to submit comments.