HC Deb 22 February 1999 vol 326 c59W
Mr. Grogan

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on the one day meeting of experts organised by the Institute of Environment and Health, at the request of his Department, to discuss the links between congenital anomalies and hazardous waste landfill sites. [71691]

Mr. Meale

The one day meeting of experts was held on 26 January 1999 at the joint request of my Department and the Department of Health. Experts in toxicology, epidemiology, exposure assessment and landfill technology were present. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss recent research findings, to identify gaps in knowledge base, and to agree and prioritise further research requirements.

The meeting made a number of recommendations for further research work. We are currently considering the best way to take forward these recommendations.