HC Deb 17 September 2004 vol 424 cc1943-4W
Sue Doughty

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether her Department has assessed the use of technology for weight-based charging for waste collection and disposal in the Isle of Man; and if she will make a statement. [188070]

Mr. Morley

The Department has not to date assessed the Isle of Man's use of technology for weight-based charging for waste collection. So far, our assessments have focused on other international experience, but we will continue to explore new evidence as it becomes available.

Richard Ottaway

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how she proposes to implement £300 million of efficiency gains on waste services as set out in the Gershon Review. [188593]

Mr. Morley

By 2007–08, Defra will help local authorities to deliver around £ 300 million worth of efficiency gains on waste and street cleansing services. Building on the Waste Implementation Programme, which has been set up to ensure mush improved support is provided to local authorities in implementing waste strategy on the ground, the main features of Defra's approach are to: provide best practice procurement advice, standard contracting approaches and targeted support to help local waste managers achieve effective contracts; support the use of new waste technologies, improve data for investment planning and further develop end-markets to encourage Industry in providing an appropriate range of waste handling facilities without involving excessive costs; encourage tiers of local authorities and adjacent authorities to work together to increase efficiency and realise economies of scale; improve the planning process for waste facilities, which can be a cause of delay and extra cost; and, promote better awareness of waste amongst householders, since participation rates can be a determinant of local authority costs.

In taking forward this programme of key actions, Defra will continue to work closely with the Local Government Association and other Government departments, including the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.