HC Deb 22 March 1982 vol 20 c279W
Mr. Sheerman

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) if he has issued revised instructions and regulations for emergency services in their dealing with chemical spills in the light of recent incidents;

(2) how many explosions in Northern Ireland in the last 10 years have included the release of polychlorinated biphenyl from electric transformers;

(3) how many emergency services personnel have come in contact with the chemical polychlorinated biphenyl in the last five years as a result of spillages from electric generators;

(4) whether he has ordered an inquiry into the handling of polychlorinated biphenyl chemical spills from electric transformers as a result of recent experience in the field;

(5) whether he has instituted any check on the effects on the chemical polychlorinated biphenyl on the health of contractors, firemen, police or army personnel called to the scene of a recent polychlorinated biphenyl leak.

Mr. Adam Butler

I shall reply to the hon. Member as soon as possible.