§ Mr. Shersbyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what studies are being carried out by his Department into the pollution of the environment by traffic-induced smog in London during the current heatwave; what discussions he is having with the motor industry concerning the desirability of compulsory exhaust emission controls; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what studies are being carried out to determine the effect on human health of traffic-induced smog in London during the current heatwave; and if he will make a statement.
229W
§ Mr. Denis HowellThe atmospheric constituents that can give rise to a photochemical smog are monitored on a continuous basis at two sites in London by the Warren Spring Laboratory on behalf of the Department of the Environment. Similar measurements are made by the Medical Research Council's environmental hazards unit at St. Bartholomew's Hospital Medical College.
Some controls on vehicle emissions already exist. Limits on hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide emissions were introduced for vehicles first used on or after 10th November 1973. These levels are being reduced for vehicles first used on or after April 1977. An EEC directive limiting the emission of oxides of nitrogen has been agreed, and this is scheduled for introduction in 1977.