HC Deb 26 November 2002 vol 395 cc148-9
5. Miss Anne Begg (Aberdeen, South)

What discussions she has had with the Scottish Executive about encouraging more recycling in Scotland. [81443]

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mrs. Anne McGuire)

My right hon. Friend and I have regular discussions with the Scottish Executive on a wide range of issues. The recycling of waste, however, is a devolved area of responsibility.

Miss Begg

My constituents are concerned about a proposal to build a very large incinerator in Aberdeen, South. If that proposal is turned down because it does not receive planning permission or if it turns out to be much smaller than planned, it will be crucial to lessen through recycling or waste minimisation the amount of waste that we produce. This Parliament has responsibility for incentives that promote waste minimisation, that encourage business to use recycled materials and that help to create markets for such materials. Will my hon. Friend hold discussions with the Treasury to help to ensure that it is gives as many incentives as it can to encourage recycling and to make sure that we have less waste to deal with?

Mrs. McGuire

I am sure that my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer, as he prepares his pre-Budget consultation, will have heard my hon. Friend's remarks.

Mr. Ian Davidson (Glasgow, Pollok)

Does my hon. Friend agree that not all recycling is to be applauded? Will she deplore the recycling of soiled, used and defeated candidates in first-past-the-post elections for the Scottish Parliament? As this is an issue for which—

Mr. Speaker

Order. That was a waste of the House's time.