Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

Waste Collection Authorities 2021-06-14

2021-06-14

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TAGS
Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Greg Clark
▸ Context
Discussions about the performance of waste collection authorities, focusing on recycling targets and management issues.
What recent discussions has he had with the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on the performance of waste collection authorities? Councils are set to recycle 65% of municipal waste by 2035. Are there any specific challenges or issues that have been highlighted?
Luke Hall
We have set a national ambition to recycle 65% of municipal waste by 2035. Councils will play a crucial role in meeting that target, and my Department will continue to work with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and local authorities across the country to improve recycling rates, reduce emissions and reduce the amount of waste ultimately sent to landfill.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Specific challenges or issues related to recent discussions were not addressed.
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Greg Clark
▸ Context
Concerns about the waste contract management by Urbaser in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge and Malling, with missed collections and roadside litter.
Will my hon. Friend join me in paying tribute to our bin men and women, who worked magnificently throughout the covid crisis? There are growing concerns in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge and Malling about the performance of Urbaser, including missed collections and uncollected litter. What can be done to put pressure on Urbaser to meet its agreed standards?
Luke Hall
I thank my right hon. Friend for his question and the opportunity to pay tribute to our waste collectors who worked magnificently throughout the pandemic, keeping communities clean and safe. It is up to councils to decide how best to manage their commitments and contractors' performance; however, my right hon. Friend's voice carries significant weight. I am sure his point has been heard clearly. I hope for a swift resolution.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Specific measures or actions to address Urbaser's poor performance were not provided.
Response accuracy