§ Mr. John EvansTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what steps he is taking to reduce acid rain emissions from coal-fired power stations.
§ Mr. BaldryThe Government are determined to implement in full the EC large combustion plants directive. This directive commits the United Kingdom to reduce its emissions of sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides from existing plants, such as fossil fuelled power stations, but does not specify the means by which this has to be done. Retrofitting flue gas desulphurisation (FGD) equipment will play an important part. Contracts have already been placed for 4GW of FGD equipment at Drax power station, and further retrofits are in prospect. However, other measures, such as the burning of low-sulphur fuels, including gas, are likely to contribute.