HC Deb 28 July 1971 vol 822 cc558-9
14 Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secreary of State for the Environmnt whether he will make a statement on his recent official action taken to publicise the Keep Britain Tidy campaign.

Mr. Peter Walker

I am encouraged by the interest which the hon. Member is showing in the Keep Britain Tidy campaign. I am grateful, too, for this further opportunity of commending to all hon. Members of the House the work of this enthusiastic national campaign body.

Mr. Lewis

I pay tribute to the Minister for dancing around the city with the dolly girls, without in any way being jealous of him, but would he not be able to fulfil his intentions if his enforcement officers carried out the law, which already enables them to keep Britain tidy, instead of dodging their responsibilities?

Mr. Walker

I am very much in favour of law enforcement. Penalties have recently been increased. I have advised the campaign that if it wants someone else who is light of foot the hon. Member would be a suitable candidate.

Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

Since such industries as the can, bottle and paper manufacturers create the raw material for litter, is my right hon. Friend satisfied that they are making an adequate contribution to the Keep Britain Tidy campaign?

Mr. Walker

I should like them to make a greater contribution. I should also like housewives to discriminate more against buying goods which are heavily packaged.