§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions whether the packaging of each available anti-wear additive for petrol will list the functional chemical component and the concentration of its active element when added to unleaded petrol in the recommended amount. [85251]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonInformation to be provided on additive packaging would be a matter for individual suppliers.
§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, pursuant to his answer of 13 April 1999,Official Report, columns 71–72, on British Standards, if he will make a statement on (a) the early problems in Sweden associated with the lead replacement petrol, (b) the reasons for sodium being dropped from the draft standard for lead replacement petrol issued in 1998 and (c) what problems were identified in Sweden with the use of sodium in lead replacement petrol and (d) whether the problems solely related to the use of sodium. [85248]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonFollowing the introduction in Sweden of Lead Replacement Petrol (LRP) in 1994, an increase in engine component wear was identified by engine repairers. The problems focused upon engine valves and on turbochargers and appeared to have been caused by a phenomenon known as hot corrosion reportedly due to the use of sodium in the fuel. With the emergence of this information, LRP in Sweden was changed to a potassium-based product and once the changeover was complete the incidence of engine damage168W dropped. During the changeover of the fuels, concern over the use of both sodium and potassium existed, but I understand this mostly disappeared as the use of potassium increased. The British Standards Institution has adopted a precautionary approach by excluding sodium from its draft standard for lead replacement petrol.
§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions whether sodium-based additives to petrol are being marketed in the United Kingdom to the public. [85249]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonWe are not aware that any petrol supplier is marketing petrol which includes a sodium-based additive. The Federation of British Historic Vehicles has tested and endorsed one self-dosing additive containing sodium.
§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the information he has published in the last 12 months on the use of sodium-based additives in petrol. [85250]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonThe Department has published two advisory leaflets to help motorists who may have concerns about the withdrawal of leaded petrol. These include general information on additives as an alternative to lead, whether already included in lead replacement petrol or provided separately for motorist's use, but do not refer to particular types of additives. Copies of the leaflets have been placed in the House Library and may be viewed on the Internet at www.environment.detr.gov.uk/unleaded/index.htm.