§ 81. Sir G. Mitchesonasked the Minister of Supply what further steps he proposes taking to increase the collection and utilisation of household waste; and whether he will ensure that householders should be informed as to the best procedure to be adopted by them in order that the fullest co-operation may be secured?
§ The Minister of Supply (Mr. Burgin)I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer which I gave to the hon. Member for Eccles (Mr. Cary) on 21st March, in which I explained the steps taken to increase the collection of household waste and to inform householders as to how best they could co-operate. Since that date the Controller of Salvage has broadcast an appeal to householders, and there 713 has been further Press publicity, supplemented in a number of districts by the distribution by the local authority of leaflets to householders, informing them of the local arrangements for collection of the materials most urgently required. These and other methods of publicity are being continued. The Salvage Department of my Ministry is also in constant communication with those local authorities whose returns of salvage operations appear to be inadequate.
§ Sir G. MitchesonWhat are the practical results?
§ Mr. BurginThe practical result is a very large increase in the collection of materials required by the country.
§ Sir William DavisonWill my right hon. Friend give information, through the papers in each district, as to how these different pieces of waste can be collected, because large numbers of people do not know what to do with the tins and papers?
§ Mr. BurginYes, Sir. I am afraid there are some London authorities which are still backward, and I shall be very happy to do all I can to facilitate their task.
§ Mr. ThorneIs the Minister aware that last night he put West Ham in the pillory, but that, as a matter of fact, we are doing all we can?
§ Mr. BurginI welcome that repentance.