§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Energy what new fossil-fuelled power stations in the United Kingdom are required to incorporate filtration equipment in accordance with the convention on long range transboundary air pollution; and, specifically, what is the position with regard to the extension of Drax.
§ Mr. Norman LamontThe convention on long range transboundary air pollution does not require signatories to modify existing or introduce new air pollution controls, including the installation of flue gas desulphurisation equipment. No such equipment is being installed in the completion stage of Drax.
The convention provides for a sequential approach to long range transboundary air pollution. In the first instance, the obligations under the convention are to research, monitor and exchange information on sulphur dioxide emissions; policies and strategies for the control of emissions will be considered subsequently if this programme of work shows action to be necessary.