Lead Pollution

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 12 December 1978.

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Photo of Mr Jeff Rooker Mr Jeff Rooker , Birmingham, Perry Barr 12:00, 12 December 1978

Like the hon. Member for Reading, North (Mr. Durant), I am pleased that my hon. Friend the Member for Wood Green (Mrs. Butler) initiated this debate, mainly for two reasons. First, she has followed this subject for a far longer period than I. She has been in the House a long time and has pursued the problem with great diligence. Secondly, it shows that the benefit of spreading the load around on the Ballot for the Consolidated Fund Bill debate means that one does not have to wait until debate No. 25, as I would have done, but can take part in debate No. 2.

I am pleased to see my right hon. Friend the Minister of State. I hope that he will answer the debate rather than read out the prepared speech that he has brought with him, because I have not yet seen him make any notes. I make that point in a friendly spirit, because I do not want to cause any trouble.