§ Mr. BerminghamTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what initiatives are being taken by his Department to ensure effective reduction of sulphur dioxide emissions to improve the acidity of surface waters in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyWe have agreed with our European Community partners a phased programme to reduce emissions of sulphur dioxide from existing large combustion plants (principally power stations) by 60 per cent. from 1980 levels by 2003, and of nitrogen oxides by 30 per cent. from 1980 levels by 1998. This will add substantially to the programme for reducing acid emissions from power stations which was already in place, estimated to cost over £1 billion.