§ Mr. R. W. Elliottasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is satisfied with the working of the Litter Act; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RipponYes. There are adequate powers for the prosecution of offenders available to members of the public, public authorities and the police. Furthermore, Section 2 of the Dangerous Litter Act 1971 directs the court to have regard to the nature of the litter and any resultant risk of injury in fixing penalties on conviction up to a maximum of £100. Enforcement and the judgment of the courts must, however, be viewed alongside a policy of education of the public designed to secure co-operation in the fight against the litter habit.