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

To ask Her Majesty’s Government, in the light of the recent judgment <i>ClientEarth (No 2) vs SSEFRA</i> ordering the Government to draw up an improved air quality plan, whether they will consider making it compulsory for local authorities to implement air quality monitors outside all schools and children’s playgrounds.

Improving air quality is a priority for this Government and we are determined to cut harmful emissions.

The Government is considering next steps in light of both the High Court judgment and recent updates in data on emissions from diesel vehicles and we will set out further measures next year.

Our plans have always followed the best available evidence and we have always been clear that we are ready to update them if necessary. We can now confirm a timetable for updating our plans next year and further improving the nation’s air quality. We will consult on a revised air quality plan by 24 April 2017 and publish a final plan by 31 July 2017.

Local authorities are responsible for reviewing and assessing local air quality, including decisions on local air quality monitoring. Their local knowledge and interaction with the communities that they serve mean that they know the issues on the ground in detail and the solutions that are best suited to local circumstances.

Defra provides guidance, including helpdesk advice, to local authorities on the appropriate type of monitoring to install. Where local authorities conduct air quality monitoring, they are expected to site monitors in accordance with local and national priorities, which may include schools and other locations where there is high risk of exposure.