§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans his Department has to encourage hospitals to adopt sustainable waste policies; and if he will make a statement. [8737]
§ Mr. MilburnWaste strategy in hospitals should reflect the policies of "Making Waste Work—a strategy for sustainable waste management in England and Wales" published by the Department of the Environment in December 1995. However, in view of the inherent nature of health care provision, the reuse and recycling elements of the waste hierarchy have to be considered particularly carefully to avoid any risk of cross-infection. National Health Service Estates, an executive agency of the Department of Health, is preparing health technical memorandum 2065 "Waste Guidance", due for publication in September, dealing with the minimisation and segregation of clinical waste.