§ Mr. HarveyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will introduce measures to discourage the use of diesel as a motor engine fuel.
§ Mr. KeyA study on diesel vehicle emissions and urban air quality by the quality of urban air review group has recently reported and the Government have commissioned research from the energy technology support unit on the possible effects of increased diesel use. We are studying that research carefully. The Department of Health's Committee on the Medical Effects of Air Pollutants is expected to report on the possible health effects of particulates later this year.
We have already agreed tighter emissions limits for future diesel vehicles and we will consider whether further action is necessary in the light of expert advice.