HC Deb 10 July 1985 vol 82 cc473-4W
41. Mr. Frank Cook

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects to announce changes to the laws and regulations affecting the disposal of hazardous waste, in line with the report of the hazardous waste inspectorate.

Mr. Waldegrave

The main conclusion of this report is the need for all concerned to apply current standards and controls properly. My right hon. Friend and I intend shortly to discuss with both representatives of industry and the local authority associations what action is needed. I am currently considering, in the light of a review of the Control of Pollution (Special Wastes) Regulations, whether any measures are needed to strengthen the law in this field.

55. Mr. Colvin

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on his policy regarding the public disclosure of the results of the monitoring of hazardous waste disposal plants.

Mr. Waldegrave

The Government accept the view of the Royal Commission on environmental pollution that there should be a presumption in favour of allowing access to information obtained by pollution authorities as part of their duties. An interdepartmental working party has been set up to consider the further measures needed to implement this general approach on a consistent and practicable basis.

69. Mr. Simon Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what consideration is currently being given by his Department to increasing the powers of his Department or of local authorities to prevent the dumping or storage of asbestos, toxic or other wastes on derelict sites, particularly those previously with an industrial use.

Mr. Waldegrave

The disposal of such wastes is already subject to licensing control under the Control of Pollution Act 1974. In addition, movement of specified types of hazardous wastes are subject to the Control of Pollution (Special Waste) Regulations 1980. My right hon. Friend is currently considering in the light of a review of these regulations whether these controls need to be strengthened or supplemented in any way.