§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Minister without Portfolio (1) if(a) lead, (b) cadmium and (c) organo-tins will be used as heat stabilisers for the construction of the millennium dome; [10688]
(2) what stabilisers will be used in the PVC used on the millennium dome; [10690]
(3) if phthalate softeners will be used in the construction of the millennium dome. [10687]
§ Mr. Mandelson[holding answer 25 July 1997]: PVC-coated polyester is the safest and most environmentally sound fabric available for the dome covering. The covering will use phthalate plasticisers and the heat stabilisers will primarily be zinc and barium salts. The New Millennium Experience Company is still negotiating with PVC suppliers but has confirmed that an order will be placed only when it is satisfied that all European and UK environmental and safety standards will be met or exceeded.