HC Deb 15 December 1988 vol 143 cc726-7W
Mr. Cox

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he has any plans to develop a collection network and incineration plants for the safe disposal of the chlorofluorocarbon refrigerant which will be removed from refrigeration machinery during the next 10 years.

Mrs. Virginia Bottomley

The EC code of good practice on reducing emissions of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) 11 and 12 in commercial and industrial refrigeration and air-conditioning applications, published in 1984 and currently being updated, includes advice on recovery, re-use and disposal of refrigerants. Both United Kingdom manufacturers of CFCs offer a reprocessing service to their customers.

Mr. Cox

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he has any plans to include in government contracts for the servicing and replacement of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment, a provision for the safe disposal of used or contaminated chlorofluorocarbon.

Mrs. Virginia Bottomley

Government Departments have been asked to review their policies, specifications and practices with a view to promoting the objective of reducing use of chloroflurocarbons and halons to the maximum possible extent. The Department is assessing the preliminary results of this exercise and considering what further steps may be required.

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