To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what information he has on the link between certain industrial processes and the deposit of fluorine in the populations of those residing near such processes.

I am informed that Her Majesty' inspectorate of pollution is aware of the release of fluorides to air from works for which it has responsibilities. Emission limits for fluorides are specified at a level which, following dispersion, should not present any problems to local inhabitants. I understand there is no evidence to suggest that releases of fluorides from industrial installations in Wales represent any health risk to local communities.