Waste Research Strategy (Hansard, 28 April 2004)

§ Mr. Peter Duncan
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when she expects to conclude work on the waste research strategy. [165262]

§ Mr. Morley
The three-year waste research strategy is due to be completed in the summer and will be based on advice form the Waste Resources and Research Advisory Group and input from stakeholders.

§ Mr. Peter Duncan
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many companies have benefited from assistance through the Waste Implementation Programme. [165310]

§ Mr. Morley
Much of the direct funding and assistance available through the Waste Implementation Programme (WIP) is directed at local authorities to help with the challenges of long-term progress in sustainable waste management, sufficient to meet the Article 5 targets of the EU Landfill Directive. It has been estimated that the additional investment needed from local authorities to meet these targets could be as high as £600–£700 million per annum over the next 10 years. This would largely be spent through contracts with the private sector. Waste Private Finance Initiative (PFI) is a key part of this approach, and has been managed through WIP since 2003. Nine major waste PFI contracts have been let to private companies, and nine more local authorities have either had their proposals approved, or are in the process of applying for PFI credits.
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In addition, WIP is seeking to provide improved data and research to industry, and to encourage local authorities to work more effectively with waste companies. And a major programme of new technology pilots for more innovative waste management practices is being taken forward in partnership with industry and local authorities.

§ Mr. Peter Duncan
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the budget for research through the Waste Implementation Programme is in 2004–05. [165311]

§ Mr. Morley
In 2004–05, the Government have allocated £5 million to research into sustainable waste management through the Waste Implementation Programme. This is a priority area, which will contribute to the development of a sound evidence base for policy development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation.