UK Enviroment Agency to investigate controversial garbage containers

Colombo (News 1st): The United Kingdom Environment Agency is to send a team to investigate the controversial containers containing garbage that was imported to Sri Lanka. The British High Commission spokesman said the UK Environment Agency has written to the Ministry of Justice in Sri Lanka, requesting assistance with their investigation into a potential illegal waste shipment to Sri Lanka, and seeking agreement for UK officials to visit Sri Lanka as part of that investigation to collect evidence with the assistance of the relevant Sri Lankan authorities. The statement points out, The Environment Agency in the UK is in close contact with their Sri Lankan counterparts to ensure that the issue of the waste containers is investigated fully. The High Commission also said the UK government is committed to tackling illegal waste exports. The statement added, ''We are working with the Sri Lankan authorities to ensure the waste is appropriately disposed. That could include a return to its country of origin. But as investigations are ongoing, you will understand that we cannot comment on specific details at this stage.'' Director-General of the Central Environmental Authority, Hemantha Jayasinghe speaking to News 1st said, the UK team is due to arrive in the country this month, however, a date is yet to be specified. He added, the UK company that shipped the garbage to Sri Lanka had not followed proper procedure and the team from the UK will look into this matter. On the 6th of July last year, 65 containers with waste were discovered by the Customs and subsequently, on the 12th that month, News 1st revealed that another garbage stock was found at the Katunayake Free Trade Zone.