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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Rebecca Speare-Cole

A cow was handed a waste carriers licence. Now MPs are calling for tighter checks

A cow was given a waste licence - with Defra now implementing tighter rules - (AFP/Getty)

Ministers are set to introduce stricter background checks for waste carriers after the current system allowed a cow to be legally approved for household rubbish disposal.

The Environment Department (Defra) confirmed that new laws will be laid this week, requiring all those who handle and transport waste to prove their qualifications. Operators found to be mishandling waste will also face up to five years in prison under the new rules, ministers announced.

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