Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP today discussed the issue of PFAS contamination in the House of Commons, during a statement on the Environmental Audit Committee’s Ninth Report on Addressing the risks from Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS).
Speaking in the House of Commons Chamber, Julian welcomed the Committee’s work and the Government’s developing PFAS strategy, and emphasised the need for communities impacted by contamination to continue to have confidence in the response from statutory authorities.
PFAS - often referred to as “forever chemicals” - are highly persistent substances that accumulate in the environment and human body over time, and have been linked to a range of serious health concerns.
The town of Bentham, in Julian's constituency, is associated with historic PFAS contamination linked to firefighting foam production, with ongoing investigations into soil and groundwater pollution.
During his intervention, Julian highlighted the importance of supporting regulators such as the Environment Agency and local authorities. He also pointed to the potential role of a levy mechanism to ensure that the significant costs of remediation do not fall on taxpayers.
You can watch Julian's intervention here.
Commenting, Julian said, “Communities, like Bentham, affected by PFAS contamination should have full confidence that the authorities responsible for protecting then. While we carefully consider the Committee’s recommendations, this report shows that their concerns are being taken seriously and that progress is being made.”
Julian will continue to engage with stakeholders on the issue.
