HC Deb 21 April 1971 vol 815 cc395-6W
Mr. Carter

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) if he is aware of recent legislation in both the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on the subject of lead pollution as it affects matters other than health, copies of which are in his possession; and if he will introduce similar legislation;

(2) if he will co-ordinate the activities of all Departments concerned in the matter of eradicating lead pollution;

(3) what recommendations he proposes to make on the subject of lead pollution;

(4) if he will set un an immediate investigation into the effects of lead pollution;

(5) if he will seek to legislate against lead pollution of the environment;

(6) what current evidence he has on the subject of lead pollution.

Mr. Peter Walker

I am advised that the levels of lead in the environment in this country do not endanger health, but its distribution and effects need to be continually studied, and this is being done in my own and other Departments. I am arranging for new measurements of lead concentrations to be obtained; and I am kept informed of facts ascertained and measures taken in other countries. I shall not hesitate to ask Parliament to approve new legislation if the need for it appears.