HC Deb 09 June 1988 vol 134 cc651-2W
Mr. Butler

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what information he has as to the particular danger to human, animal and plant health arising from the disposal of domestic waste imported from the United States of America.

Mr. Moynihan

My officials in consultation with the MAFF and DHSS are considering whether any dangers are posed to human, animal or plant health by the import of domestic waste from the USA.

Mr. Butler

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what information he has as to the amount of domestic waste imported into the United Kingdom from the United States of America in each of the last five years.

Mr. Moynihan

We are not aware of any imports of domestic waste from the USA in the last five years.

Mr. Butler

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will seek powers to prohibit the import of domestic waste from the United States of America into the United Kingdom.

Mr. Moynihan

The provision of waste disposal services is a legitimate business provided it is carried out in accordance with proper environmental safeguards, does not involve risks to public health and does not jeopardise the availability of suitable facilities for the disposal of United Kingdom waste. I am aware of public concern about proposals to import large quantities of domestic wastes from the United States of America and am considering whether any action may be necessary.

Mr. Butler

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what information he has on the proposed dumping of domestic waste from the United States of America at Arpley Meadows, Warrington.

Mr. Moynihan

I understand that a British Company, Power, Water and Waste, Ltd., have approached the Manchester Ship Canal Company with proposals to landfill United States domestic waste at one of their facilities. I believe negotiations are continuing.

Mr. Butler

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what information he has on the content of the proposed imports of waste from the United States of America into the United Kingdom for disposal at Arpley Meadows, Warrington.

Mr. Moynihan

I understand that the proposal to import waste from the United States of America concerns normal domestic refuse.