HC Deb 16 February 1987 vol 110 c421W
Mr. Michael Morris

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will take steps to advise users of capacitors containing polychlorinated biphenol to replace them in view of their toxicity and non-biodegradability.

Mr. Waldegrave

[pursuant to his reply, 12 February 1987, c. 314]: The Control of Pollution Act (Supply and Use of Injurious Substances) Regulations 1986, Statutory Instrument 1986 No. 902, banned the sale and new use of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) throughout the United Kingdom.

It is not planned to advise existing users of capacitors containing PCBs to replace them before the end of the service life of such equipment since PCBs pose no threat to human health or the environment whilst in use in secure equipment.

Mr. Michael Morris

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what advice he gives on the safe disposal of capacitors containing polychlorinated biphenol.

Mr. Waldegrave

[pursuant to his reply, 12 February 1987, c. 314]: The main source of advice the Department gives on the disposal of wastes containing polychlorinated biphenyls is waste management paper No. 6 which includes advice on the safe disposal of capacitors.