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Written question asked by Al Carns (Labour) on Thursday, 3 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 7 September 2026. It was answered by Jim McMahon (Labour) on Friday, 11 September 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Waste Disposal: Birmingham

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what discussions her Department has had with Birmingham City Council on the ongoing bin workers' dispute; and what steps she is taking to help support the resumption of regular waste collection services for residents.

Answer

During the acute phase of the waste dispute last year, the Government took decisive action in lock step with the Council to ensure waste in the city was safely and sustainably managed. The result was to establish a regular, reliable waste collection service despite industrial action.

The ongoing waste dispute is damaging for the residents and reputation of the great city of Birmingham. It is disappointing that a resolution has not yet been achieved, but this matter remains a local issue and is between Birmingham City Council, as the employer, and Unite, representing employees. The Government is not a party to this dispute, but we continue to urge both parties to work together to bring about a sustainable solution to end the strike, in the interests of the people of Birmingham.

We take the progress made across Birmingham City Council very seriously. A successful and prospering Birmingham is a priority for this government, and the department regularly engages with the Council in line with standard practice for statutory interventions. This is alongside receiving regular updates on progress from Commissioners, including on the waste dispute.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
27110
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Birmingham Industrial disputes Waste disposal
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk