§ Mr. ButlerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what are his plans for the development of the local authority role in waste recycling. [16556]
§ Mr. GummerA review group on the local authority role in recycling was established last year, comprising members from local government, from private sector producers, waste disposal operators and users of recycled waste, from community groups, and from central government. Its report has now been finalised and submitted to me and to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Wales. It contains a number of proposals, including for local authorities to work together to produce municipal waste management strategies, and emphasises the importance of an integrated approach to waste management. I and my right hon. Friend are today issuing the report for consultation, and will consider its recommendations in the light of comments received. Copies are being placed in the Library of the House.
Local authorities have a vital role to play in helping to achieve the goal of sustainable development. I welcome the group's report as a positive contribution to the development of that role, and am grateful to its members for the time and effort they have put into the group's work.