§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how many fuels are now authorised to be burnt in smoke-controlled areas. [31107]
§ Mr. ClappisonThere are currently 47 fuels authorised for use in smoke control areas by the Smoke Control Areas (Authorised Fuels) Regulations 1991 and by subsequent amendments.
§ Mr. PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what proposals he has to deregulate smoke control legislation. [31104]
§ Mr. ClappisonAs announced in "Cutting Red Tape" in January 1994, the Government intend to repeal certain sections of the Clean Air Act 1993, including section 4 which enables local authorities to approve the design and installation of industrial furnaces in order to ensure smokeless operation. These are no longer necessary in light of changes in fuel use and the provisions of the Environment Protection Act 1990.
§ Mr. PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how many fuels currently on the market cannot be burnt in smoke controlled areas. [31105]
§ Mr. ClappisonThe Department does not maintain a list of all such fuels. The use of a fuel, other than one authorised by the Secretary of State in the Smoke Control Areas (Authorised Fuels) Regulations 1991 and subsequent amendments, may constitute an offence under the Clean Air Act 1993. Some unauthorised fuel, such as coal and wood, may be used in smoke control areas when burnt in fireplaces exempted by order of the Secretary of State.