MP backs calls for air quality investigation

EDINBURGH North & Leith Labour MP Mark Lazarowicz has backed calls for a public inquiry into claims toxic fumes are putting thousands of plane passengers and cabin crew staff at risk.

A new report claims contaminated air can cause breathing problems, nausea and fatigue, while long-term exposure may even lead to brain damage.

Mr Lazarowicz has endorsed a motion at Westminster supporting the call from pressure group Global Cabin Air Quality Executive for an inquiry.

He said: "Given the thousands of people from Edinburgh who regularly jet off, it's vitally important that passengers and plane crew get both protection and information about the potential health risks.

"Effective filtration systems are available for less than £10,000 per aircraft so there must be a good case for making their use mandatory in order to reduce the risk to the health of the travelling public and to the operating crews."