Written question asked by Tom Cox (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 3 February 1997. It was answered by James Clappison (Conservative) on Monday, 3 February 1997 on behalf of the Department of the Environment.

Dept of the Environment

Question: What plans his Department has to impose a ban on the import and use of asbestos products in the United Kingdom.

Answer: Mr. Cox: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans his Department has to impose a ban on the import and use of asbestos products in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement. [13561] Mr. Clappison: The United Kingdom takes the view that prohibitions on the marketing and use of asbestos should be based on agreements within the European Union. The Asbestos (Prohibitions) Regulations 1992 and the Asbestos (Prohibitions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1993 implement directive 91/659/EEC and prohibit the importation and use of many forms of asbestos. Efforts will continue within the United Kingdom to find suitable alternatives to the remaining uses of asbestos, and to encourage the use of substitute products, but a total ban will not be instituted without EU agreement.

Secondary information