§ Mr. John Evansasked the Secretary of State for Trade (1) how much raw crocidolite was imported into the United Kingdom in the latest year for which figures are available; and what were the countries of origin;
(2) how much crocidolite used as part of a manufactured product was imported into the United Kingdom in the last year for which figures are available; what were the products; and what were the countries of origin.
§ Mrs. Sally OppenheimNo imports of blue asbestos (crocidolite) have been recorded since this substance was first separately identified in the Overseas Trade Statistics in 1974. It is not possible to say whether any manufactured products incorporating it have been imported.
§ Mr. John Evansasked the Secretary of State for Trade whether crocidolite can still be imported and used in the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. ParkinsonMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Employment is responsible for determining policy on the import of carcinogenic industrial substances into the United Kingdom. The import of crocidolite has not been banned, but stringent control limits introduced under the Asbestos Regulations 1969 led the United Kingdom asbestos processing industry to decide that it was impracticable to continue using it, and imports ceased in 1970.