Written question asked by Joan Walley (Labour) on Tuesday, 9 November 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 15 November 2004. It was answered by Phil Hope (Labour) on Monday, 15 November 2004 on behalf of the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.

Office of the Deputy Prime Minister

Question: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister, what recent representations he has received on the use of red ash from pit waste used as hardcore in house building.

Answer: Ms Walley: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what recent representations he has received on the use of red ash from pit waste as hardcore in house building. [197696] Phil Hope: It is believed that no recent representations has been received by my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister concerning the use of the pit waste known as red ash for use as hardcore in house building. However, it is known that problems have been encountered when red ash material has become saturated and consequently expanded. Technical guidance is available of how to deal with this material when it is discovered. If the red ash fill remains in a dry condition then there are few difficulties with the material. Regretfully some individuals have been ill- advised and have suffered unnecessary disruption and expense when the material has been discovered in their dwellings. Due to the high concentrations of sulphates in red ash, it is no longer recommended as a construction material under buildings.

Secondary information