§ Mr. WrayTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what powers his Department has to control and issue guidelines to British Rail regarding the use of fuel-burning trains in urban areas.
§ Mr. McLoughlinOperational aspects of motive power are a matter for British Rail. Enforcement of controls under the Clean Air Act 1956 on emissions of dark smoke is by local authorities. Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, railway engines other than steam locomotives could become subject to statutory nuisance action by local authorities or individuals.