HC Deb 25 June 1990 vol 175 c112W
38. Mr. Malcolm Bruce

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on methane discharges from gas terminals.

Mr. Peter Morrison

Methane cannot be released unignited into the atmosphere from gas terminals unless a consent under section 12 of the Energy Act has been given by the Secretary of State for Energy. Consents are issued only when it has been demonstrated that it is necessary for the safe operation of a particular plant.