HL Deb 12 January 1987 vol 483 cc467-8WA
Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What instructions, and formulated by whom, and in accordance with what criteria, are given to firemen concerning the need to prevent chemicals from entering the country's water systems.

The Minister of State, Home Office (The Earl of Caithness)

The attention of the fire service has been drawn by the Home Office to guidance published by the Health and Safety Commission about incidents involving dangerous substances conveyed in bulk by road and rail. The basis of that guidance was expert advice provided by the Joint Committee on Fire Brigade Operations and agreed with the Health and Safety Executive. The department has also given guidance about pesticides following consultation with British Agrochemicals Association and about polychlorinated biphenyls, again following consultations with experts. In all case of incidents involving chemicals the service is aware of the need to avoid environmental pollution and to seek specialist advice in particular cases.