§ Mr. OnslowTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what authority is responsible for clearing litter from the verges of the A3 in Surrey; and what steps he takes to ensure that this is done on a regular basis.
§ Mr. Atkins[holding answer 26 January 1990]Under the Control of Pollution Act 1974 the district councils are responsible for cleaning for purposes of public health and amenity. My Department is responsible for cleaning for maintenance and safety purposes only. Surrey county council acts as the Department's agents, operating under our code of practice. The code prescribes the frequency of litter clearance, which can be varied to meet local circumstances.
The Environmental Protection Bill proposes that district councils become wholly responsible for litter clearance on all roads other than motorways.