§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Social Services where the radioactive waste from hospitals, medical and research laboratories is deposited under current arrangements.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeThe information requested is not available centrally. Disposal of radioactive waste is governed by the provisions of the Radioactive Substances Act 1960 subject, in the case of National Health Service hospitals, to the provisions of the Radioactive Substances (Hospitals Waste) Exemption Order 1963, as amended. Guidance to hospitals and to research establishments is contained in the code of practice for the protection of persons against ionizing radiation arising from medical and dental use and guidance notes for the protection of persons exposed to ionizing radiation in research and teaching. Where an authorisation is required under the Act, it is given—in England—by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment.