Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
There are concerns about air quality in various areas of the UK, including Harrogate and Knaresborough where three air-quality management areas exist.
What steps he is taking to improve air quality. I am concerned about improving air quality in my constituency, specifically mentioning that while improvements were made at Bond End junction in Knaresborough, Woodlands junction in Harrogate continues to break NOx levels and needs further action.
Local authorities have a range of tools they can use to reduce air pollution, which we are building on through the Environment Bill. The bill ensures that local authorities have a clear framework and simple-to-use powers to tackle air-pollution issues in their areas. We are broadening the range of bodies required to take action to improve air quality.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific help given to reduce NOx levels was not detailed
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
There are concerns about congestion taxes and the extent of clean air zones in Bolton, which is situated nearly 500 square miles away from Westminster.
How can Bolton avoid a future with £15 congestion charges? And how can it manage being part of a clean air zone that stretches from here to Watford. The Greater Manchester plan does not include charging private cars but has concerns about the impact on drivers and businesses.
Only the most polluting older vehicles are charged, it is not a congestion charge. The Greater Manchester plan does not include charging private cars. We have provided £41 million in advance of the zone to help drivers and businesses least able to upgrade their vehicles. Further funding will be allocated.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
There are concerns about the effectiveness of local measures to reduce NOx levels, particularly at Woodlands junction in Harrogate.
What help is being given to local authorities to help them reduce NOx levels? The Environment Bill aims to ensure that local authorities have a clear framework and simple-to-use powers to tackle air-pollution issues. Getting other bodies involved closely on air-quality management plans can also support this effort.
Local authorities have a range of tools they can use, and we are building on these through the Environment Bill. The bill ensures that local authorities have clear frameworks and simple-to-use powers to tackle air-pollution issues in their areas. We will continue to provide support through the air-quality grant.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific measures or funding details for reducing NOx levels were not provided
Response accuracy