STORY
The Government has announced new reforms aimed at stopping waste criminals from exploiting loopholes in the regulatory system. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said the measures would introduce stricter background checks for waste carriers and tougher penalties for illegal dumping.
The reforms form part of the Government’s Waste Crime Action Plan and are intended to make it harder for rogue operators to remain active in the sector. Waste Minister Mary Creagh (in photo) said that the changes would help remove corrupt operators from the industry and strengthen action against those responsible for fly-tipping and illegal waste activity.
The Environment Agency said the reforms would give it stronger powers to revoke permits and issue enforcement notices. The Government said lawbreakers could face up to five years in prison under tougher penalties for waste crime.