§ Lord CHITNISasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are satisfied that there is no threat to health from carcinogens 157WA in diesel exhaust fumes and, if so, what steps they will take to reassure the communities of Ashtead and Leather-head through which over 16,000 diesel vehicles per day would pass if the present proposed line of the M.25 is followed.
§ Baroness STEDMANThe Medical Research Council are continuing to study the effects of emissions from diesel engines, paying particular attention to potentially carcinogenic compounds. So far no evidence has been found to suggest any health hazard from the concentrations likely to be found around main roads. The Department keeps in close touch with the Department of Health and Social Security on this question.
I understand that this point has already been raised by one objector in evidence to the Inspector at the current inquiry at Leatherhead into objections to subsidiary orders for the section of the M.25 passing between Ashtead and Leatherhead. It will be considered by my right honourable friend the Secretary of State for the Environment and my right honourable friend the Secretary of State for Transport together with all the other objections and representations and the Inspector's report before they reach a decision. The Inspector's report to my right honourable friends and their decisions will be published.