I’ve started writing to the manufacturers/brand owners of the batteries that I use to ask them their opinion on the advice given to me by Swindon Borough Council.
So far:
Duracell - a very poor site in terms of the sort of information I am seeking.
Philips - wow, this site was really really good. I was impressed that every battery has a fact sheet including some environmental statements. The information concerning the ability to be able to chuck their stuff in normal household waste was missing however.
Uniross - contact details, email, telephone and fax.