HL Deb 31 October 1995 vol 566 cc157-8WA
The Countess of Mar

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What are the known hazards to humans, domestic and wild animals and the environment of a major spillage of lindane and phenylmercury acetate into a watercourse and on to surrounding land in the short and long terms.

Earl Ferrers

The effects on human health, animals and the environment following a major spillage of lindane and phenylmercury acetate depend upon the extent of exposure. The risk of exposure is affected by factors such as the amount of the substances spilt, how and where the spill took place and whether remedial action to limit the extent and duration of the spill was applied quickly.

Human exposure to lindane or phenylmercury acetate may cause minor symptoms in the short term, but these would be transient. However, both substances are potentially toxic to animal life, including fish, aquatic macroinvertebrates and soil dwelling insects and worms.

Rates for tractive unite with 2 axles Rates for tractive unit with 3 or more axles
(1) Any no. of semi-trailer axles (2) 2 or more semi-trailer axles (3) 3 or more semi-trailer axles (1) Any no. of semi-trailer axles (2) 2 or more semi-trailer axles (3) 3 or more semi-trailer axles
£1,150 £1,090 £440 £1,090 £440 £440

As the substances are degraded and dispersed, their concentrations decline and the environment can recover through deliberate or natural repopulation.