HC Deb 12 December 1939 vol 355 c1035W
Mr. Parker

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is taking any steps to utilise the large amount of household rubbish being dumped at present on the Thames marshes at Mucking and Canvey Island, which could be incinerated in such a way as to produce fertilising ash with by-products of potash, lime and a mineral residue of great value to farmers?

Colonel Llewellin

There is at present little or no demand for fertiliser purposes for the residues, such as fertilising ash, arising at the numerous incinerating plants already in existence throughout the country. Having regard to this fact and the considerable expenditure entailed in the installation of additional plant, my right hon. Friend sees no sufficient reason for taking steps to secure the incineration of the London refuse now being deposited on the Essex marshes. I may add that I understand that my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries has under consideration the whole question of the better utilisation for agricultural purposes of the available residues from existing incinerating plants.