§ 47. Mr. Spriggsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is aware that complaints continue to be made about the emission of toxic chemicals in the Sutton district of St. Helens by parents of young families who are concerned at the effect on children; and if he will take action through the Alkali Inspectorate to deal with this matter.
§ Mr. Eldon GriffithsI very much regret this air pollution which arises in part because the works in question are sited unusually close to dwelling-houses—a matter on which the Alkali Inspectorate was not consulted before planning permission was granted. The works management is shortly to install a new cooling system which will improve emission control and the inspectorate will continue to visit the works frequently and keep it under close supervision.