18 Oct 2004 : Column 433W

Air Quality (Aircraft Cabins)

Mr. Tyler: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps his Department has taken, since 1997, to ensure that health risks arising from contaminated cabin air in BAE 146 aircraft are fully and independently investigated. [191635]

Charlotte Atkins: The Civil Aviation Authority on the basis of a thorough, independent study has investigated the safety risks associated with contaminated cabin air in BAE 146 aircraft. The Aviation Health Unit, which is funded by the Department, is currently looking into the potential long term health risks associated with contaminated cabin air.