§ Sir. John Pageasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will urgently complete his consultations about the possible lifting of smokeless zone requirements in certain areas so that he can announce his decision before Christmas.
§ Mr. WaldegraveMy right hon. Friend has aleady agreed to suspend smoke control orders temporarily in three areas where the local authorities concerned have formally requested it. The suspension orders will come into effect shortly. He is prepared to consider further requests in the light of evidence about the need for such action.