HC Deb 23 June 1993 vol 227 cc189-90W
Mr. Callaghan

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received in recent months concerning the import and incineration of toxic wastes.

Mr. Yeo

I refer the hon. Member to the answer the then Secretary of State for the Environment gave on 28 April,Official Report, columns 949–50, to the hon. Member for Newport, East (Mr. Hughes).

Mr. Callaghan

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will launch a comprehensive assessment on the state of toxic tips in the United Kingdom and their effect on groundwater supplies.

Mr. Yeo

A research study has been initiated to review the extent and type of groundwater contamination associated with the landfilling of controlled wastes. The work aims to provide information about the significance of any identified groundwater contamination, when compared with background levels and with other sources of contamination, and in relation to drinking water standards. The project is expected to be completed in 1995–96.