§ Mr. Win GriffithsTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received on the way in which the Environmental Protection Act 1990, section 48(6) and (7) prevents local authorities from recycling the domestic and commercial waste they collect; and if he will make it his policy to allow local authorities to recycle as much of the waste they collect as is feasible. [19941]
§ Mr. Gwilym JonesMy right hon. Friend has received a number of representations about section 48(7). This subsection has not yet been brought into operation but its effects would be to prevent waste collection authorities in Wales from providing plant and equipment for the sorting and baling of waste themselves and would require them to engage independent contractors for this purpose. In making arrangements for recycling, district councils in Wales will be aware of the additional powers available to them under sections 51 and 55 of the 1990 Act.
In the recent White Paper "Making Waste Work", the Government made clear their intention to review the role of local authorities in recycling. We also reaffirmed our commitment to the target of recycling or composting 25 per cent. of all household waste by 2000.
§ Mr. GriffithsTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what estimate he has received from each of the counties and boroughs due to take responsibility for local government on 1 April of the amount of waste they will recycle in the first year of their existence. [19938]