§ Mr. SheermanTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the effect on imports of diesel fuel of the introduction of regulations on ultra-low sulphur diesel. [53562]
§ Mr. BattleSome increases in the imports of ultra-low sulphur diesel fuel are expected in the short-term while UK producers are modifying plant to increase indigenous production of this fuel.
§ Mr. SheermanTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when regulations governing the introduction of ultra-low sulphur diesel fuel will come into operation. [53560]
§ Mr. BattleAll diesel fuel has to meet the specifications set out in the Motor Fuels (Composition and Content) Regulations 1994. Ultra-low sulphur diesel fuel has, in addition, to meet the requirements specified in the March 1998 Budget which are included in the current Finance Bill. There are no plans to introduce further regulations.