Ivor Callely
Question:63 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Environment if he will outline the progress made in connection with the association of cancer to benzene in petrol; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Cancer Link with Benzene in Petrol.
It is now accepted that benzene in the atmosphere can be a carcinogenic agent.
The marketing of either leaded or unleaded petrol with a benzene content of more than 5 per cent is prohibited in his country under Regulations which give effect to the benzene provisions of EC Directive 85/210/EEC on the approximation of the laws of the member states concerning the lead content of petrol.
Directive 91/441/EEC on measures to be taken against air pollution by emissions from vehicles includes controls on exhaust and evaporated emissions of hydrocarbons which include benzene. The effect of Regulations shortly to be made will be that, from 31 December next, all new petrol-engined vehicles will have to meet the emission standards of the Directive. The EC Commission is also developing measures to control evaporative losses of volatile organic compounds, which include benzene, from gasoline distribution systems.