§ Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what study he has made of the Medical Research Council report on blood-lead levels among schoolchildren; when he intends to publish this report; what further steps is he taking to reduce the blood-lead level in the community; and if he will make a statement.
§ Dr. VaughanThe Medical Research Council funded a pilot study into the feasibility of testing whether there is any association between levels of blood lead commonly found in urban environments and attainment in schoolchildren. The pilot study would not be conclusive by itself. Publication of the results rests with the research workers concerned; but I understand that a report of this study is expected to appear in a professional journal shortly. Further work is already under way and I am advised that the MRC is considering the possibility of extending it. I would refer the hon. Member to the statement made by my right hon. Friend the Minister for Local Government and Environmental Services on 11 May—[Vol. 4, c. 483–484]—in which he announced details of the Government's further measures to reduce hazards arising from lead in the environment.