HC Deb 18 November 1958 vol 595 cc127-8W
76. Mr. Swingler

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what progress is being made in reducing the causes of atmospheric pollution; and what expert assistance his Department is giving to the directors of industry, local authorities and householders in the matter.

Mr. Bevins

Dark smoke from chimneys is, with certain exceptions, now prohibited; there is a statutory obligation in force to take all practicable means to minimise grit and dust from industrial furnaces; the number of smoke control areas in operation or preparation is growing at a steady rate; and pollution by noxious or offensive gases which is controlled under the Alkali Act is showing a significant fall.

The Department is directly responsible for giving technical advice only where the process is subject to control under the Alkali Act. Information indicating where local authorities, industry and householders can obtain technical advice, is given in the three memoranda on the Clean Air Act published by the Department, copies of which I am sending to the hon. Member.