By making waste management an executive function, however, we are removing what should be the primary responsibility of the elected representatives. I would much prefer a system which placed a mandatory responsibility on local authorities to make reasonable, practical and cost-effective arrangements for all their activities, including waste management. Just as with striking a rate and providing finances, if they fail to do so there should be a penalty. That underwrites the mandatory approach to it. I would prefer that to the approach of giving it to management who often, no more than councillors, do not have the technical expertise to properly assess the issues and make decisions. They depend on consultants as much as we do. In the current climate of tribunals, investing such powers in one individual rather than in a group of people where it is transparent and open to public debate is a weakness. That aspect might be looked at.