Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment he has made of the effect on health of indoor air pollution resulting from cooking; and what steps he is taking to reduce pollution resulting from cooking.

Indoor air pollution is caused by a wide range of sources. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines on indoor air quality at home highlight the link between gas cooking and pollutant levels. Pollutant levels are generally higher in the kitchen while cooking without using an extractor fan, than outdoor levels. Evidence also showed that cooking activity increases moisture and creates damp conditions.

NICE guidelines advise that mechanical ventilation or extractors should be used, or windows opened if possible and safe when using cookers, especially gas cookers. The NICE guidance is available at the following link:

https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng149

The Department continues to engage with colleagues across Government to coordinate work in this area and develop the evidence base around the health impacts of air pollution.