HC Deb 03 August 1976 vol 916 cc737-8W
Mr. Edge

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will hold a public inquiry into the health and environmental hazards of tipping toxic waste into a mineshaft and open lagoon in Walsall Wood, West Midlands.

Mr. Denis Howell

No. The statutory authorities are well aware of the problems which have arisen at Walsall Wood and have powers to take action if any hazard to health or the environment appears likely.

Mr. Edge

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is satisfied with the present arrangements for the disposal of toxic waste; and if he will consider introducing legislation to prohibit the tipping of untreated waste.

Mr. Denis Howell

It is already an offence under the Deposit of Poisonous Waste Act 1972 to dispose of poisonous waste in a way which creates an environ- mental hazard. In addition, the licensing system for waste disposal sites recently introduced under the Control of Pollution Act 1974 will allow waste disposal authorities to prohibit the tipping of untreated waste wherever this is necessary to protect public health or amenity.

Mr. Edge

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will examine ways of assisting manufacturing companies to treat their own toxic waste before disposal.

Mr. Denis Howell

My Department is already studying disposal methods for a range of toxic wastes and has issued guidance documents which will be of help to firms producing such waste. More are to follow.

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