§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what consultations she has had in the last year with other Ministers and Departments concerning combating the levels of air pollution and its effect on health; and if she will make a statement. [25960]
§ Mr. SackvilleMinisters in the Department of Health hold frequent meetings with other Ministers to discuss a variety of matters, which will sometimes include the effects of air pollutants upon health. On this issue we are advised in particular by the Committee on the Medical Aspects of Air Pollution Episodes.
§ Mr. WatsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will specify the air-borne pollution most damaging768W to health as indicated by Her Department's research into the causes of asthma and links with air pollution. [26602]
§ Mr. SackvilleLevels of air pollution vary considerably from place to place and at different times, and there is no one pollutant which is consistently the most damaging. The effects on individuals are determined by the duration of exposure as well as the level of pollution, and sensitivity to pollutants may also vary between individuals. The Department of the Environment's air quality information line—0800 556677—provides information on the levels of pollutants.