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

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if he will make an assessment of the adequacy of criminal sanctions for fly tipping.

We have committed to forcing fly-tippers and vandals to clean up the mess they have created. This will build on the sanctions already available which include fixed penalty notices of up to £1000, seizing of vehicles and prosecution which can lead to a significant fine, a community sentence or even imprisonment. Sentencing is a matter for the independent courts. We do not intend to carry out any further assessment of criminal sanctions for fly tipping.

We encourage councils to make good use of their enforcement powers, and we are considering if further guidance is needed.