§ Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what research is presently being undertaken on behalf of the Government to examine the possible health implications of benzene in the atmosphere.
§ Mr. TrippierThe toxic effects of exposure to high concentrations of benzene in the air are well understood, but possible consequences to health of exposure to low levels of benzene are less well understood. A monitoring study funded by the Department has recently been completed and has increased our understanding of the levels of benzene to which the public may be exposed. The Government's health advisers will be asked to consider the evidence on exposure to benzene in the atmosphere and advise on its implications for public health.