To ask the President of the Board of Trade what discussions have been held with the packaging industry as to their views on the prospect of increased incineration of household waste; and if he will make a statement.

Officials from the Department of Trade and Industry have had regular discussions with representatives of the packaging industry about various aspects of the disposal of domestic and commercial waste. These discussions will continue and will take into account the findings of the Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution's report on incineration as a waste disposal option.