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MPs back new recycling law
14 March 2003
A proposed new recycling law, which would greatly improve the UK's recycling record, successfully passed its Second Reading in the House of Commons today. It will now be discussed in detail by a Committee of MPs.
Joan Ruddock's Municipal Waste Recycling Bill [1], which passed its Second Reading unopposed, would require the Government to ensure that 50 per cent of domestic waste is recycled by 2010. The current target is 30 per cent (by 2010). Latest figures show that the UK only recycles around 11 per cent of its waste.
Friends of the Earth's Director, Tony Juniper, said:
"We are delighted that Joan Ruddock's Municipal Waste Recycling Bill has passed its crucial second reading unopposed. MPs and the Government clearly understand that we must drastically increase the amount of domestic waste that this country recycles. We hope that this Bill will pass through its remaining stages as quickly as possible, so that Britain can finally have a recycling record to be proud of."
Notes
1. Copies of the Municipal Waste Recycling Bill are available from Friends of the Earth. It was drawn up by Joan Ruddock MP (Lewisham Deptford) and Friends of the Earth. Joan Ruddock was drawn fifth in the ballot for Private Members Bills - this ensures that the Bill will have enough Parliamentary time to become law.
If you're a journalist looking for press information please contact the Friends of the Earth media team on 020 7566 1649.
Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Jul 2008
