§ Mr. Tom Coxasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will list the types of asbestos in Battersea power station; what action and by whom is to be taken for its removal; and what public consultation will take place before the asbestos is removed.
§ Mr. GummerI have been asked to reply.
All types of asbestos are thought to be present An Battersea power station, but the CEGB's policy at this site will be to treat all asbestos as crocidolite. This will ensure that the highest standards of protection are applied throughout.
Stripping of the asbestos will begin this September, but the contract has not yet been let. The CEGB intends to manage the asbestos removal.
The Health and Safety Executive will be informing the local authority that asbestos is to be removed from Battersea, as it does whenever this operation is caned out at a power station.