HC Deb 06 January 2004 vol 416 cc245-6W
Mr. Randall

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what discussions she has had with(a) BAE systems and (b) other manufacturers regarding the timetable for implementation of new aircraft technology which would reduce detrimental effects on air quality. [143824]

Mr. Bradshaw

Defra has not had any discussions with BAE Systems or other aircraft technology manufacturers.

There is a continuous dialogue between the Government and industry on action to reduce emissions impacts. Two current fora stand out:

  1. Aerospace Innovation and Growth Team—this Department of Trade and Industry sponsored initiative has adopted the Advisory Council for Aeronautics Research in Europe targets for improvements in fuel efficiency and oxides of nitrogen emissions by 2020; and
  2. Greener by Design—an industry initiated group looking at innovative solutions to aviation environmental problems. It reported in February 2002 and is now entering a phase of work promoting a range of actions, including technological solutions, to reduce emissions.
The Government also engage with UK industry and the wider manufacturing sector through the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) pushing for action to reduce emissions. ICAO action is focused upon shorter term technology improvements through increases in the stringency of emissions standards and establishing longer term technology goals.

Mr. Randall

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether the company commissioned by her Department to conduct the air quality study around Heathrow has previously conducted studies and research for airlines.[143825]

Mr. Bradshaw

Cambridge Environmental Research Consultants (CERC) has not previously conducted studies or research for airlines. CERC has previously conducted studies involving airport emissions for local authorities and for BAA plc; a Dublin airport study is ongoing.

Mr. Randall

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether interim findings from the study on air quality in the Heathrow area commissioned by her Department have been incorporated in discussions on the proposal for a third runway at Heathrow.[143826]

Mr. Bradshaw

Interim findings from the study are not yet available and so have not been incorporated in discussions on airport capacity at Heathrow.

Mr. Randall

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether the report on air quality around Heathrow from Cambridge Environmental Research Consultants Ltd. will be discussed with the Department for Transport after its publication.[143827]

Mr. Bradshaw

The Department for Transport will be kept informed of progress of the research and the report will be discussed with the Department before and after its publication.