Low sulphur fuel plan approved
New legislation designed to hasten the introduction of ultra low sulphur petrol and diesel has been approved by the European Parliament. If Parliament's decision is accepted by EU governments, the sulphur content of petrol and diesel will fall to just 10 mg/kg from 2009.
In its second reading of the draft legislation, Parliament insisted that the new standards should apply to all vehicles, including farm tractors and other agricultural machines.
The draft legislation, which is designed to cut air pollution through the use of cleaner fuels, now passes to EU governments. Further talks between the governments and Parliament may be necessary if there is not agreement on the amendments voted by MEPs.
Curbs on boat emissions
The European Parliament has given the go ahead at second reading to draft legislation designed to curb exhaust and noise emissions from petrol and diesel emissions used in recreational boats. MEPs agreed to exempt boats built for personal use from the new rules. Parliament's second reading report was tabled by North East MEP Martin Callanan (Cons).
The legislation now passes to EU governments for approval.