34Research and publicity
(1)A local authority may—
(a)undertake, or contribute towards the cost of, investigation and research relevant to the problem of air pollution;
(b)arrange for the publication of information on that problem;
(c)arrange for the delivery of lectures and addresses, and the holding of discussions, on that problem;
(d)arrange for the display of pictures, cinematograph films or models, or the holding of exhibitions, relating to that problem; and
(e)prepare, or join in or contribute to the cost of the preparation of, pictures, films, models or exhibitions to be displayed or held as mentioned in paragraph (d).
(2)In acting under subsection (1)(b), a local authority shall ensure that the material published is presented in such a way that no information relating to a trade secret is disclosed, except with the consent in writing of a person authorised to disclose it.
(3)Breach of a duty imposed by subsection (2) shall be actionable.
(4)In any civil or criminal proceedings (whether or not arising under this Act) brought against a local authority, or any member or officer of a local authority, on the grounds that any information has been published, it shall be a defence to show that it was published in compliance with subsections (1) and (2).