THE Government's handling of the burning of a toxic waste fuel in Clitheroe has been hauled before the European Parliament.

The European Commission issued the government with a formal public warning in July for failing to carry out an environmental impact assessment before giving Castle Cement the go-ahead to burn the controversial Cemfuel at its Ribblesdale Works in Clitheroe.

North West Euro MP Chris Davies has called on the European Commission to shed some light on the matter during an open debate in the European Parliament.

Commissioner Margot Wallstrom has warned the matter might be referred to the European Court of Justice for further action.

She gave the government until September 22 to respond, but campaigners reacted angrily after a government spokesman said the matter being dealt with in private.

Mr Davies said: "I tabled a question during a session in the European Parliament and asked what action the European Commission was taking regarding the burning of toxic waste fuels by Castle Cement in Clitheroe.

"I don't expect a response for about six weeks or so, but it is likely to be comprehensive.

If the matter is referred to the European Court of Justice it could take at least a year before the case is heard and the UK Government might be fined or ordered to carry out an environmental assessment of Clitheroe.