Police and council powers to battle the illegal dumping of waste could be beefed up by the Government, Justice Secretary Chris Grayling has indicated.

Mr Grayling spoke after Thurrock MP Jackie Doyle-Price highlighted the mile long fly-tip in Purfleet that was left behind after an unauthorised traveller camp.

Mr Grayling said there were lessons to be learned in the area to make sure it does not happen again but stressed that if national powers can help in the battle against fly-tipping, ministers are willing to analyse options.

During justice questions in the Commons, Ms Doyle-Price said: "You recently visited Purfleet in my constituency where you saw with your own eyes the mile long fly-tip that's been left following an unauthorised travel encampment.

"Would you agree with me that it's very important that both the police and local authorities make use of the powers at the their disposal in order that public confidence in our justice system is maintained?"

Mr Grayling replied: "Can I say I think that the scale of what happens in your constituency is absolutely shocking.

"There are absolutely lessons to be learned by local police, by the local authority, by the local Police and Crime Commissioner, which must be learned to make sure something like this cannot happen again.

"What I would say to you is if there are powers that need to be taken at a national level to help in that battle then this Government will certainly be willing to look at what we can do to contribute as well."