§ Ms RuddockTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what information and guidance has been given to local medical authorities in areas where sites are currently being used for experimental work on the use of toxic materials including chloro-cresol as fuels;
(2) what information and guidance the Government have issued to local medical authorities on the effect on human health of the release of dioxins caused by the burning of toxic materials.
§ Mr. SackvilleControls are in place to ensure that substances discharged into the atmosphere are at levels that have been demonstrated to have no appreciable health effects. Her Majesty's inspectorate of pollution is responsible for controlling the emission of pollutants from major industrial sources.
Detailed guidance to health authorities and trusts has been issued by the Department in four circulars, HRG(93)18, HRG(93)24, HRG(93)38 and HRG(93)56, the latter of which was issued jointly by the Department of the Environment. These advise on roles and responsibilities within the national health service, and on sources of advice for health care staff in the event of a chemical incident causing the release of toxic substances. Copies of the circulars will be placed in the Library.
The national poisons information service is available to provide information to doctors, and, on request, clinical advice, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.