To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what discussions (a) have taken place and (b) are planned between his Department and the Health and Safety Executive on the use and development of safe alternatives to asbestos. [9190]

As my hon. Friend is aware from the Adjournment debate on 18 June, I have asked the Health and Safety Commission to advise me urgently on a mechanism for introducing a domestic ban on the import, supply and use of asbestos. Safe and effective alternative non-asbestos products are available for some, but possibly not all, uses. The Health and Safety Executive is currently researching the situation with other Government Departments and industry. The commission is consulting widely before giving its formal advice.