HC Deb 19 October 1994 vol 248 cc258-9W
Mrs. Gorman

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what is Government policy on EC proposals to restrict the use of chlorine in industrial processes.

Mr. Atkins

The United Kingdom Government, in common with the rest of the European Union, support a science-based approach to evaluating the risk and benefits of substances including chlorine and chlorinated compounds which takes account of possible alternative substances. Only after the appropriate risk assessments have been undertaken, and the evidence from them demonstrates a need for action, will the Government agree to any restrictions.