HC Deb 19 May 1971 vol 817 c296W
47. Mr. Kenneth Clarke

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects to announce his decision on the Report of the Committee on Refuse Disposal.

Mr. Peter Walker

Many of the recommendations are of immediate and practical interest to local authorities and others engaged in the disposal of refuse. In Circular No. 26 dated 27th April, 1971 I indicated I have accepted in principle the central recommendation that the disposal of all solid waste should be co-ordinated over reasonably large areas and that there should be a greater measure of control.

90. Mr. Kenneth Clarke

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will encourage local authorities to consider a refuse compression process, similar to the one being considered by Kensington and Chelsea Council, details of which have been sent to him.

Mr. Michael Heseltine

Methods of treatment of refuse at source must necessarily vary from area to area and will be a matter for local decision. The Department's Standing Committee on Research into Refuse is, however, considering the question of reduction of volume of refuse at source.