§ Mr. Matthew TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has to set targets for the phasing out of HFCs. [14984]
§ Mr. AtkinsThere are no plans to phase out HFCs, nor to set targets for phaseout. HFCs have been developed as alternatives to some ozone-depleting substances and are an important part of the solution to the problem of depletion of the ozone layer. However, HFCs are also greenhouse gases and the Government are discussing with industry the scope for voluntary agreements to limit HFC emissions and to ensure that HFCs are not used where emissions are unavoidable if safe, practical and more environmental acceptable alternatives are available.