Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps her Department is taking to help improve coordination on recycling and waste management strategies with local authorities.

This is a devolved matter and the information provide therefore relates to England only. We recognise there are efficiencies and service improvements that can be achieved by joined up working. Currently there are levers and activities that encourage coordinated activity. For example, requirements to cooperate when appropriate in relation to planning waste infrastructure and requirements for joint municipal waste management strategies in ‘two tier’ systems. Upcoming reforms for consistent collections will significantly support joint working by ensuring minimum requirements across all local authorities. This will help remove barriers and support local authorities to identify opportunities for more coordinated action.