HC Deb 10 July 1985 vol 82 cc477-8W
61. Mr. Favell

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he has any further proposals to deal with the problem of litter.

Manpower (Full time equivalents)
March 1979 March 1985 Change
(Thousands) (Thousands) (Thousands) (Per cent.)
Non-Manual 1,273.3 1,292.0 +18.7 +1.5
Manual 692.5 598.3 -94.2 -13.6
Total 1,965.8 1,890.3 -75.5 -3.8

Mr. Waldegrave

No. This is primarily a field for local action and initiative. Local authorities already have duties and powers relating to the cleaning of highways and other public places, and the Keep Britain Tidy group, which is financially supported by my Department, plays an important part in securing the collaboration of local authorities and other interests and groups in measures to prevent litter. The long term answer to the litter problem must lie primarily in persuasion and education.