Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

Covid-19 Lockdown Air Quality

2020-05-19

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TAGS
Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Direct Answer
Jeff Smith Lab
Manchester Withington
▸ Context
During the COVID-19 lockdown, there was a reduction in motor vehicle use which affected air quality. DEFRA's monitoring showed significant decreases in nitrogen dioxide concentrations.
What assessment has been made of the effect on air quality due to reduced motor vehicle usage during the COVID-19 lockdown?
Rebecca Pow
DEFRA's monitoring stations showed nitrogen dioxide concentrations were 46% lower between 23 March and 5 May compared to the same period last year, due to substantial reduction in traffic levels. Other pollutants did not show similar trends.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Jeff Smith Lab
Manchester Withington
▸ Context
In Manchester's sister city Wuhan, car use nearly doubled when lockdown ended, leading to negative impacts on air quality. The Prime Minister's statement encouraged the use of cars.
Is the Minister concerned that the Prime Minister's statement encouraging car use could lead to increased pollution?
Rebecca Pow
Firstly, it was advised that those who could work from home should do so. Those going to work were encouraged to use cars but also cycle and walk. The uptake of cycling has increased during this time. The Prime Minister aims to phase out new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035.
▸ Assessment & feedback
The statement does not directly address the concern about pollution from car use increasing post-lockdown.
Working With Partners Acknowledging A Good Note
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Lloyd Russell-Moyle
▸ Context
Air pollution kills approximately 40,000 people annually and many towns exceed WHO limits. The Government has previously dismissed putting targets for air quality in the Environment Bill.
Given growing evidence linking poor air quality to higher covid deaths and lockdown improving air quality, will the Minister agree to set targets on air quality in the Environment Bill?
Rebecca Pow
The Environment Bill introduces a duty to set legally binding targets on PM concentrations of pollutants. The independent Air Quality Expert Group is analysing the situation and lessons will be learned from coronavirus regarding air quality impacts on health.
▸ Assessment & feedback
The Minister does not commit to setting specific targets in line with WHO standards as requested.
Lessons Will Be Learnt
Response accuracy