HC Deb 03 February 1972 vol 830 cc197-9W
Mr. Laurance Reed

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) whether he will have discussions with the European Commission on its proposal for the creation of a European Environment Institute;

(2) if he will hold discussions with the European Economic Community Commission on its proposal to create a single observation network for monitoring and tracking pollutants in the environment;

(3) if he will have talks with the European Economic Community Commission about pooling the efforts of European Community countries on research into the recycling of wastes;

(4) if he will have discussions with the European Economic Community Commission about co-ordinating the efforts of Common Market countries on research into pollution avoidance.

Mr. Peter Walker

I am pleased to observe the interest shown both by governments of member States of the E.E.C. and by the Commission in achieving common environmental policies within the Community. Her Majesty's Government will play their full part in this development and will pursue discussions on all these matters within the framework of the Common Market, on both a bilateral and Community basis.

Mr. Laurance Reed

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what action he has taken to ensure that anti-pollution measures adopted by the Government do not place British companies at a competitive disadvantage in the Common Market;

(2) what action he has taken to ensure that anti-pollution measures adopted by the Government do not become a non-tariff barrier to trade as between European countries in the Common Market.

Mr. Peter Walker

We are taking an active part in a number of international consultations directed to the development of common standards for polluting articles of trade. Where measures under consideration for the protection and improvement of the ambient environment have implications for industrial costs, these are taken into account before a decision to impose particular requirements is taken.

Mr. Spearing

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what changes he envisages in town planning law and practice as a result of joining the European Economic Community.

Mr. Graham Page

None.

Mr. Spearing

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if his decision of 16th December, 1970 not to permit lorries in excess of 32 tons maximum weight can be affected by the Council or Commission of the European Economic Community in the event of ratification of the Treaty signed in Brussels on 22nd January, 1972.

Mr. Peyton

As a full member of the Community, this country would be bound by any rules it adopts on lorry weight limits.