Written question asked by Jim Cunningham (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 26 March 1996. It was answered by James Clappison (Conservative) on Tuesday, 26 March 1996 on behalf of the Department of the Environment.

Dept of the Environment

Question: What investigations have been conducted by Her Majesty's Inspectorate into the recent fire at Whitley incinerator, Coventry, and what measures have been taken to reassure the local residents over the question of public health safety.

Answer: Mr. Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what investigations have been conducted by Her Majesty's inspectorate into the recent fire at Whitley incinerator, Coventry, and what measures have been taken to reassure the local residents over the question of public health safety.[22279] Mr. Clappison: Her Majesty's inspectorate of pollution, HMIP, is investigating the fire which occurred on 8 March at the Whitley incinerator. It has asked for a report of the incident from the company. Initial investigations suggest that the fire may have started as a result of a power failure causing the extraction fans to stop. This led to the combustion chambers in the incinerators becoming pressurised, causing hot material such as sparks to be thrown out of the combustion chamber which set light to unincinerated refuse in the main bunker. The investigation is targeted at identifying the causes of the incident in order that a recurrence can be prevented. HMIP is also co-operating with the local council and the public health department in their investigations into the possible health effect of the fire, and will consider these findings in relation to any further action.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 22279; 274 c533W;274 c533-4W
Session: 1995-96
Subjects: Inquiries Health hazards Fires HM Inspectorate of Pollution Incinerators Waste disposal Whitley