§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is his policy towards environmental pollution in Wales caused by the burning of orimulsion; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Gwilym JonesOnly one application has been made in Wales to use orimulsion fuel on a large-scale commercial basis. This relates to National Power's proposals to use the fuel at its Pembroke power station.
As required, National Power has made separate applications to the Department of Trade and Industry and Her Majesty's inspectorate of pollution under the Electricity Act 1989 and the Environmental Protection Act 1990, respectively. These applications are now under consideration.
In advance of decisions by the relevant authorities, it would not be appropriate for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State to comment on the proposals, especially in view of his statutory appellate role under the Environmental Protection Act. However, the hon. Gentleman can be assured that all the environmental implications of National Power's plans will be fully taken into account before final decisions are taken.