§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he has made an assessment of the possible application of part I of the Environmental Protection Act for coal-fired power stations; whether the BATNEEC—best available technique not entailing excessive cost—provisions will require the fitting of flue gas desulphurisation equipment to such stations; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmoryThe requirements of the Government's plan for implementing the large combustion plants directive, to be made under part I of the Environmental Protection Acts, will lead to the retrofitting of flue gas desulphurisation to three major coal-fired power stations. The Government will also lay regulations setting tight emission standards for new plants.
The chief inspector of Her Majesty's inspectorate of pollution will shortly be issuing for consultation draft guidance on techniques for controlling emissions from large combustion plants.