HC Deb 07 December 1998 vol 322 cc44-5W
Mr. Gareth R. Thomas

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what information is being provided to owners of older vehicles that will be affected by the withdrawal of leaded petrol from sale from 1 January 2000. [62962]

Ms Glenda Jackson

The withdrawal of leaded petrol is part of a European strategy to reduce pollution from road traffic and the air we breathe.

I am nevertheless aware of the concerns of many owners of older vehicles about the practical implications of the ban and information is being made available, at outlets such as MOT stations, garages and forecourts and other locations, which will address the sorts of questions which motorists have been raising. Information may also be found on the Department's website at http://www.detr.gov.uk.

The general message for those who use leaded petrol is that they will have several options available to ensure that they can continue to use their car after 1 January 2000.