To ask the Secretary of State for Energy if he will fund future research at the CERL laboratory, Leatherhead, in the area of acid rain and sulphur dioxide emissions from fossil-fuel generating stations; and if he will make a statement.

Reductions in the emission of sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides are governed by the European large combustion plant directive. Research into the most effective way of meeting these reductions is a matter for the industry. In addition, the Department's Advisory Council on Research and Development maintains a watching brief on developments in electricity research and development and will make recommendations to the Secretary of State as appropriate.