INTRODUCTION of food waste collections in Croydon have been praised by the Government's environment secretary, Caroline Spelman.

The issue was raised in the House of Commons by Croydon Central MP, Gavin Barwell who in addition to asking her to recognise the local initiative asked what else the Government can do to develop the market for other materials to be recycled.

In her reply, Ms Spelman said: "I congratulate Croydon Council on that new development.

"We certainly see the opportunity for local authorities up and down the land to introduce a waste food collection scheme that feeds into anaerobic digestion and, in turn, produces a renewable source of energy.

"Croydon Council predicts that it will help the borough to increase its recycling rate from 32 per cent to 46 per cent, which, therefore, has the full support of the Government."