Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Sarah Jones and Sarah Dyke

Monday 23rd March 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sarah Dyke (Glastonbury and Somerton) (LD)]

T8. Criminal gangs are targeting isolated farmland and woodland, dumping lorry loads of illegal waste, which poses serious environmental risks. The Environment Agency reports that offenders are saving thousands of pounds in disposal costs while landowners face the financial responsibility of clearing the site. Will the Minister support the National Crime Agency in preventing and effectively prosecuting serious and organised rural waste crime?

[Sarah Jones]

The hon. Lady is absolutely right. Rural waste crime is completely unacceptable; it is often driven by larger, serious organised criminal gangs, and we are determined to bear down on it.