§ Mr. DayTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what assessment he has made of the operation of the United Kingdom national plan implementing the EC large combustion plants directive; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AtkinsThe sector emission limits specified in the national plan have consistently been observed. However, the Government keep the operation of the plan under review, in order to take account of changes in the pattern of industrial activity, the structure of industries and the pace of technological change and its effects on emissions. In the light of a recent review, and after consultation with the industries concerned, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment has decided, in exercise of his powers under section 3(5) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, to make a minor revision to the plan to allow a small increase in the sector limit for emissions of oxides of nitrogen, NOx, from the refineries in England and Wales. The increase will be offset by an equivalent reduction in the NOx. sector limit for the electricity supply industry in England and Wales. There will thus be no increase in the overall sector limits for England and Wales. The revised figures are set out in the table.
enterprise council and other interested parties as a matter of urgency to discuss the next steps. I, as sponsor Minister for Tyne and Wear, will be on Tyneside this Friday and will be available to meet all the interested parties.