Under the UK Government’s plan for the import and export of wastes, imports from EU member states, with the exception of Ireland and Portugal, are being progressively phased out under an annual quota until 31 May 1999.
The waste incineration industry had requested that the Government extend this quota by at least one year. In answer to a question in the Commons, Environment Minister Michael Meacher said that the Government will not give any extension, as this would conflict with its policy on self-sufficiency in waste disposal by developed countries.
Meacher also clarified that the 31 May deadline applies to the date at which waste must arrive at the disposal facility rather than the date for importation or actual disposal.