§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps are being taken to ensure that the requirements for halon fire extinguishing systems in aircraft cockpits will be met from existing stocks or recovered materials; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NorrisHalons are in use on aircraft in portable fire extinguishers and in fixed systems for engine and cargo compartment fire protection. Halons possess remarkably good fire fighting properties but their production will be phased out because of their effect on the ozone layer. Although replacements are being developed, none is likely to be suitable as a straightforward substitute.
The Government are in consultation with the Civil Aviation Authority and the aviation industry, investigating the possibility of setting up a scheme for the banking and recycling of existing halon stocks. Any such scheme would apply to halon users in other industries.