§ Sir Eldon GriffithsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received from Suffolk county council on his consultation paper regarding the role and function of waste disposal authorities; and what steps he is taking to avoid a hiatus in the search for and acquisition of new disposal sites as foreshadowed by the county council between the date of issuance of his Green Paper and the anticipated date of his implementing his proposed changes.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyI have received from Suffolk county council detailed comments about the consultation paper on the role and functions of waste disposal authorities. These comments, along with many others, are being given careful consideration.
Until any changes are implemented, waste disposal authorities will retain their duties under present legislation to arrange, through public or private sector facilities, for the disposal of waste collected by the waste collection authorities. Under the arrangements proposed in the consultation paper public facilities would be provided by local authority waste disposal companies. On the due date all the waste disposal assets of a disposal authority would be transferred to the company which will be under the authority's control as shareholder and board member. There is no reason why a hiatus need develop in the search for and acquisition of new disposal sites.