HC Deb 19 December 2002 vol 396 cc926-7W
Dr. Starkey

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the effect of increases in landfill tax on the role of incineration in waste management strategies. [86774]

John Healey

Future increases to the standard rate of landfill tax, announced in the recent Pre-Budget Report, are intended to encourage a move away from landfill as the primary means of waste disposal, as well as to encourage greater use of recycling. It will clearly be for the market to decide what role incineration plays once the increases have taken effect.

The recent Pre-Budget Report also announced a review of the environmental and health effects of all waste management and disposal options. The role of incineration within the waste management and disposal mix, and the case for using economic instruments, will be considered in light of this work, and in consultation with other stakeholders.