HC Deb 23 November 1987 vol 123 cc50-1W
Mr. Nicholas Winterton

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment whether his Department is aware of any research recently undertaken into the biodegradability of condoms.

Mr. Moynihan

We are unaware whether any research has taken place recently. Whilst potentially assisting with disposal and processing, biodegradability may adversely affect performance.

Mr. Nicholas Winterton

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps are being taken by his Department to alleviate the problems caused by condoms in sewerage treatment works.

Mr. Moynihan

Operational management of sewage treatment works is the responsibility of the water authorities like other materials, such as rags, plastics and so on, condoms are removed from sewage by screening at the inlet to the treatment works. I have had no representations from them that they have any specific problems in dealing with condoms at their works.

Mr. Nicholas Winterton

To ask the Secretary for the Environment what advice his Department gives to environmental health officers about the handling of used condoms.

Mr. Moynihan

I refer my hon. Friend to my reply of 10 November 1987, at column107, about advice to local authorities on the disposal of clinical waste. Waste Management Paper No. 25 also advises on collection of such waste, although it does not deal specifically with used condoms.