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Terms of reference

The following are the terms of reference of the Select Committee, as agreed on 20th September 2001:

To examine and recommend an appropriate waste strategy for the citizens of Newcastle, and to see what needs to be done by individuals, companies and the local authority to facilitate that strategy. In particular, to look at:

(a) The national guidance in the Government's Waste Strategy 2000;

(b) The implications for such a strategy for the health of the community, the provision of employment, the environmental and the financial implications for citizens; and

(c) Examples of best practice nationally and internationally.

To develop new methods of participatory democracy and to ensure local people are able to have an effective say in any proposals for a waste strategy.

What it's all about, on a banner

When speaking to the opening session of the Select Committee on 6th September 2001, Andrew Bennett, MP, summarised the role of the Select Committee inquiry as follows:

I am grateful to BAN Waste for all the work they have done to set up this inquiry. Too often, groups oppose things without looking at positive alternatives. I see this inquiry as a positive way forward.

In waste management, governments can cajole and regulate, Councils can facilitate, but in the end the policy is decided by every individual citizen by what they buy, and how they choose to dispose of their waste. So people have votes, but their votes are things like disposable nappies, dog and cat litter, bottles, newspapers, plastics, old sofas, empty take away cartons!

As I see it, the challenge of this inquiry is to raise the awareness of the people of Newcastle as to why waste management is a major issue; to find out what people are prepared to do about it; and how the Local Council can facilitate what local people want to do.

I come with no preconceived ideas of what is possible, although I take as my starting point the two House of Commons inquiries. We are keen to hear from the ordinary people of Newcastle.