§ Mr. MeacherTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has for tradeable permits for(a) sulphur dioxide discharges and (b) water discharges for industry. [7230]
§ Mr. ClappisonA possible role for tradeable permits in relation to sulphur dioxide emissions was discussed in the consultation paper on a national strategy for meeting the UK's commitments under the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe second sulphur protocol. The outcome of that consultation will be announced later this year.
The Government will also shortly be publishing a discussion paper on the scope for economic instruments to be used in respect of water pollution, including the potential to introduce tradeable permits for discharges from industry.