Excess winter mortality, wood fires and the uncertainties associated with air pollutants.

There is excess mortality in the winter. To minimise this it is important that an adequate indoor temperature is maintained and this is dependent on affordable energy supplies. Standards adopted by the Ministry for the Environment in relation to levels of small particles (PM10) in the air and the Regulations to enforce their implementation are based on inadequate scientific evidence. They are likely to make heating less affordable and have a negative net effect rather than a positive one on general health. Whilst the attainment and maintenance of clean air is laudable, regulations should be based on sound scientific evidence. The costs, benefits, and equity for individuals need careful consideration, as do the implications for energy security.