§ Mr. DafisTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make it his policy to set a timetable to ensure that all existing power stations and combustion plants operate according to new plant standards by 2000.
§ Mr. MacleanSince 1 April 1991 all large combustion plants have been subject to integrated pollution control 127W under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and therefore to regulation by Her Majesty's inspectorate of pollution. When considering an application for authorisation HMIP is required to ensure the use of best available techniques not entailing excessive cost to prevent, or minimise and render harmless any releases. The precise timetable for the upgrading of existing plant, and the standards to be achieved, are matters for HMIP.