Mr. Alan WilliamsTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is the amount of(a) benzene and (b) aromatics compounds typically present in different grades of petrol; and what is the maximum permitted by law. [17700]
§ Mr. NorrisThe composition of petrol varies significantly between refineries and between batches produced by the same refinery due to the processes used and the crude oil being processed. The latest available1993—data from the United Kingdom Petroleum Industry Association indicates that the average percentage of benzene and aromatics, by volume, in different grades of petrol, on a sales adjusted basis, is as follows:
1078W
Agency 1993–94 1994–95 Jobs (nature) Taken over by contractors Disappeared Taken over by contractors Disappeared Uniformed Coastguards and administrative Coastguard nil nil nil 16 Driving Standards nil 49 nil nil Driving Examiners Driver and Vehicle Licensing1 — — 2131 315 Administrative
Percentage by volume Petrol 4 star leaded Unleaded premium Unleaded super Benzene 2.12 2.46 3.08 Aromatics 31 33 42 Benzene is controlled at a maximum of 5 per cent. by EC directive F5/210/EEC. There is no maximum limit for aromatics.