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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of ensuring that PM2.5 levels in England are 10 µg m-3 or below by 2030.

We have followed an evidence-based process working closely with internationally recognised experts to set air quality targets that are stretching but achievable.

We have proposed targets for 2040 because this is when our evidence shows, that although challenging, they can be achieved everywhere.

The measures required to meet 10 micrograms per cubic metre everywhere by 2030, such as restrictions on solid fuel burning and reduction of traffic, would have a disproportionate effect on individuals and small local businesses. This is due to locations in urban areas including, but not only, London which pose particular challenges to deliverability.