HC Deb 06 June 1990 vol 173 cc609-11W
Mr. Flynn

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps are taken to minimise environmental pollution when seized cannabis is disposed of.

public sector borrowing requirement, (d) balance of payments current account, (e) the rate of inflation at April of each year and (f) interest rates at April of each year.

Mr. Major

In so far as it is available, the information requested is given in the table. The appropriate figures are expressed in 1989 (or 1989–90) prices.

Mr. Ryder

Most cannabis seized by Her Majesty's Customs and Excise is destroyed by incineration within Queen's warehouses. The incinerators used are designed to comply with the emission requirements of Her Majesty's inspectorate of pollution, ensuring total burnout of solid and gaseous material.

Customs staff are instructed to consult with local authorities for advice where destruction of drugs might lead to environmental hazard.