HC Deb 14 April 1976 vol 909 c591W
Mr. Watkinson

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many hospitals have waste disposal units.

Dr. Owen

This information is not available and could only be obtained at disproportionate expense.

Mr. Watkinson

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how much revenue hospitals have gained through selling waste food to pig farmers; and if he will continue to encourage the sale of such foodstuffs.

Dr. Owen

The income derived by hospitals from the sale of waste food to pig farmers is not separately identified in the annual accounts of National Health Service authorities. It is netted with certain other items of income against the expenditure on provisions. I regret, therefore, that the information required is not readily available. National Health Service authorities will continue to be encouraged to secure the maximum financial return for the sale of waste food and other waste products.

Mr. Watkinson

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if it is his policy to encourage the introduction of waste disposal units in hospitals.

Dr. Owen

This is a matter for decision by the responsible health authority in the light of the local circumstances.