§ Mr. SheermanTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to make available unused land-fill tax credits for environmental enhancement purposes. [52823]
§ Mr. MeacherThe Government have no power to compel landfill operators to make contributions to the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme. However, many have taken advantage of the tax credits available. £85.5 million has been contributed to date to fund schemes that provide clear environmental benefits including research into waste management, land reclamation and the provision of public amenity areas such as parks. HM Customs and Excise, together with other departments, are currently considering whether the scheme could be further improved, and in particular whether it could be amended to bring recycling within its scope.