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Prime Minister Chrétien Raises Concerns Regarding Proposed British Ban on Asbestos
June 20, 1997
Denver, Colorado
Prime Minister Jean Chrétien in a meeting today with Prime Minister Tony
Blair during the Summit of the Eight in Denver, raised Canadian concerns
about the British government's intention to ban the use of asbestos.
Earlier this week Parliamentary Undersecretary of State (Environment and
Transport), Angela Eagle, announced that the British government intends
to ban the import, supply and use of asbestos.
"Canadian technical and scientific experts will meet shortly with their
British counterparts to discuss and answer questions on the specific properties
of Canadian- mined chrysotile fibre," said Prime Minister Chrétien. "Canada
has unparalleled technical and scientific expertise on chrysotile fibre.
We hope the U.K. will be willing to work with our team of experts in reviewing
the scientific basis for the safe use of chrysotile fibre."
The Canadian Government supports the controlled use of chrysotile fibre.
In this context, the Canadian Government and the Canadian industry signed,
on March 3, 1997, a memorandum of understanding to promote the safe and
responsible use of chrysotile fibre.
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PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555
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