§ Mr. OakesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make it his policy to require any power station intending to burn orimulsion to install flue gas desulphurisation equipment before any of the fuel is burned.
§ Mr. Maclean[holding answer to November 1992]: Such matters are for HM inspectorate of pollution (HMIP) in the first instance. I understand that applications have been made to HMIP under part I of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 to burn orimulsion at four power stations. None of these has been determined. In determining these applications, HMIP will consider the environmental consequences of all releases from the process to all three media: air, water and land. If HMIP authorises the burning of orimulsion it is required to ensure best available techniques not entailing excessive cost to prevent or minimise and render harmless any releases. I also understand HMIP regards flue gas desulphurisation as an available technique.
In view of my right hon. and learned Friend's appellate role in these matters it would not be appropriate for me to comment further.