Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural affairs, what steps his Department took to alert (a) children, (b) older people, (c) people with health conditions and (d) other vulnerable groups to the pollution episodes that occurred across England between 4-26 April 2019.

During episodes of elevated air pollution (including the episodes between 4-26 April 2019), Defra works closely with Public Health England and a network of health charities to ensure that key health messages are communicated to those who are vulnerable to the effects of air pollution, in addition to communicating through our normal digital channels.

Defra’s Daily Air Quality Index (https://uk-air.defra.gov.uk/air-pollution/daqi) assists in understanding air pollution levels and suggests recommended actions and health advice. Such advice applies to anyone experiencing symptoms.