109. Mr. W. T. Williamsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what is the measurable extent of pollution of the atmosphere of Warrington caused by the Howley power station; and if he will now take steps to bring 32W about the closure of the station in view of the incidence of chest disease in the county borough;
(2) what steps he is taking to prevent emissions from the Howley power station; and to what extent these steps are preventing pollution of the atmosphere in Warrington.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerAs I said in answer to the hon. Member on 17th February. I am advised by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry that it will not be possible to close this power station for some time. With the active supervision and help of the Alkali Inspectorate, however, the management are complying with the statutory requirements to use the best practicable methods to control emissions, and these prevent a great deal of pollution. It is not practicable to calculate the proportion of air pollution in Warrington attributable to the power station.