§ Ms MowlamTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans he has to change existing policy on atmospheric pollution in Northern Ireland following the recent Eastern health and social services report on the link between atmospheric pollution and the incidence of lung cancer.
§ Mr. MossIn his fifth annual report, the director of public health for the Eastern health and social services suggested that a link may exist between atmospheric pollution and the incidence of lung cancer in certain parts of Northern Ireland, particularly in the Belfast area and that atmospheric pollution may be one of several environmental factors linked to the causation of disease. It presented no specific evidence however to show that such a link exists.
The Government have made a firm commitment to ensure that statutory air quality standards set to protect public health are achieved and maintained throughout Northern Ireland. They also have an on-going programme of major initiatives designed to improve air quality and inform the public when conditions are such that those at greatest risk are made aware of the situation.
Last week, a joint statement was issued by the Secretaries of State for Transport and for the Environment setting out proposals for a new air quality management strategy for the United Kingdom taking account of the nine most significant pollutants. Northern Ireland has been consulted and will be fully involved in the evaluation and implementation of initiatives flowing from the strategy.