HC Deb 05 June 1947 vol 438 cc362-3
7. Sir Robert Young

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that many householders now regard the collection of waste materials for salvage collection as unnecessary seeing such collections, if made, are at irregular and unknown periods, and if he will say what, in addition to waste paper and rags, should be retained for salvage collection.

Sir S. Cripps

I cannot too strongly emphasise the importance of improving collections of household salvage and I hope that householders will do their best to keep waste materials separate and local authorities will ensure as far as possible regular collections. In addition to waste paper and rags, kitchen waste should be saved in those areas where collection facilities are provided. Bottles, jars and bones are also important. This is very much a matter for local action, and it would be of very great help if hon. Members on both sides of the House would do all they can to revive local interest in this highly important subject when in their constituencies.

Sir R. Young

Will my right hon. and learned Friend do something to get local authorities to make periodic visits at definite times?

Sir S. Cripps

All local authorities have been circularised by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health, myself and others in order to try to stimulate them to carry that out.

Mr. Gallacher

Is the President of the Board of Trade aware that the Housewives' League is making a collection of waste paper and proposing to dump it in this House? Will he see that it is duly disposed of?

Mr. Molson

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman say what articles are compulsorily salvaged under Defence Regulations at the present time, and which no longer are so? Is it the case that bottles do not have to be salvaged?

Sir S. Cripps

Perhaps the hon. Member will put that question on the Paper, and I will give him an accurate answer.