CONTROL OF MAJOR ACCIDENT HAZARD SITES

That this House notes with regret the explosion at the Kleen Energy plant in Connecticut on 7 February 2010 resulting in substantial injury and loss of life; expresses concern for the safety of people affected by gas plants, such as Calor Gas on Canvey Island, that are sited in Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH) sites; further notes with concern that some operators of COMAH sites have been subjected to prohibition or enforcement notices, demonstrating a failure to adhere to systems put in place to safeguard the community; believes that any new fast-track planning system dealing with nationally significant infrastructure projects must include independent review of local emergency processes and risk factors where COMAH sites are involved; and calls on the Government and the Opposition to commit to a national safe siting policy.