§ Sir Bernard BraineTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what action he is taking to prevent toxic waste originating from outside the European Community being reshipped for disposal to the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. MoynihanToxic waste originating outside the Community which is reshipped by another member state for disposal in the United Kingdom will be subject to the EC directive on transfrontier shipment of hazardous waste, which we expect to implement later this year. Shipments will need to be notified in advance to the disposal authority for the area containing the prospective disposal facility. There will be a power to object to shipments whose disposal would be contrary to United Kingdom law for the protection of the environment and human health.
§ Sir Bernard BraineTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what control is exercised to ensure that imported toxic waste is not dumped in Essex and other counties because of their close proximity to continental ports; and whether he will order a review of waste disposal practices to ensure protection of the environment.
§ Mr. MoynihanImported waste, which is subject to the same control as indigenous waste, is disposed of at facilities in various parts of the country. All such facilities must be licensed by waste disposal authorities to ensure that disposal does not damage public health, water supplies or is detrimental to local amenities.
239WWaste disposal practices are reviewed continually and my Department publishes waste management papers giving detailed guidance on best practice, to ensure protection of human health and the environment.