§ 15. Sir J. Edenasked the Minister of Transport what evidence he has of the harmful effects on health of diesel and other urban traffic fumes; and what steps he proposes to take to reduce them.
§ Mr. MarplesThe investigations so far conducted have not shown that the concentration of traffic fumes at present found in our city streets has any serious effect on health. Natural dispersion is normally sufficient to prevent harmful concentrations in the air but research into the medical aspects of the whole matter of air pollution, including that from motor vehicles' exhausts, is being carried out by the Medical Research Council.
§ 70. Mr. Robert Cookeasked the Minister of Transport what progress he has made in his efforts to enforce the laws governing the emission of offensive smoke and fumes from road vehicles; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MarplesThe number of vehicles found making too much smoke during a roadside check on 8th April was nearly 3,000 out of a total of 25,570 which were observed. Prohibition notices were issued for 2,068 vehicles. 107 of these became subject to immediate prohibition. Excessive smoke will be one of the things looked for during the intensified roadside checks which are taking place this summer.
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79. Mrs. Butlerasked the Minister of Transport if he will take action to ensure that all new cars are fitted with anti-smog devices to reduce atmospheric pollution by car exhaust fumes.
§ Mr. MarplesIt has not as yet been established that the concentrations of motor vehicle fumes in our streets do constitute a danger to health. In any case the action suggested by the hon. Member is contingent upon the availability of an effective and practicable device.