§ Lord O'Haganasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they have ensured that the European Community will not prohibit the use of lead in paint for historic buildings.
§ Lord Hesketh: Measures to restrict the marketing and use of paints containing lead carbonate and lead sulphate compounds are included in a recently agreed Council directive (of 21st December 1989 amending for the eighth time Directive 76/769/EEC on the approximation of laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the member states relating to restrictions on the marketing and use of certain dangerous substances and preparations). However, specific exemptions are given within the directive which allow for the continued use of such paints for the restoration and maintenance of historic buildings and their interiors.
When the official text of this directive is published, a copy will be placed in the Library.