asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he intends to bring into operation section 1 of the Control of Pollution Act 1974 relating to the removal of waste from commercial properties and hospitals.

It would not be appropriate to appoint a day for the coming into operation of section 1 of the Control of Pollution Act 1974 until the bulk of waste disposal plans required under section 2 of that Act have been completed. To date, 16 English waste disposal plans have been completed, and a further 12 are understood to be at an advanced stage of preparation. My right hon. Friend continues to urge the remaining authorities to make progress as soon as possible.