asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is satisfied with existing provisions and their operation for the control of tipping, especially in green belt areas.

We believe that improvements may be possible in some aspects of present controls and we are reviewing the relevant legislation.

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his reply. Is he aware that the welcome increase in economic activity of all kinds has led to an unfortunate and resented increase in nuisance from tipping, which no level of authority appears willing or able to control?

Particular problems derive from the exemption of the general development order in respect of tipping, allegedly for agricultural purposes, in green belt areas. We wish to examine that. Several other improvements are under review.