MERIDEN MP Saqib Bhati has called for changes in the law around fly-tipping as he led a well-attended debate on the issue in Westminster Hall.
He told fellow MPs that enforcement needed to be beefed up with stronger prosecution, greater protection in rural areas for the farming community and greater funding to support CCTV and other deterrent measures.
He also asked for an education campaign to highlight not only the economic consequences but also social impact of this crime.
“Fly-tipping continues to be a blight on our local environment and has serious economic and social consequences,” said Mr Saqib. “I was glad to have the opportunity to bring these new proposals to the minister and I welcomed the minister recognised what should and could be done.
“We will be clamping down on this environmental crime once and for all.
“I also want to thank my very noble and committed parish councils and community organisations who inspire me every day to keep Meriden clean and keep Meriden tidy.”
Government minister Jo Churchill said: “DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) continues to chair the National Fly-Tipping Prevention Group, through which we work with a wide range of interested parties, such as local authorities, the police, the Environment Agency and the National Farmers Union, to disseminate good education and learning.
“My own farmers have spoken to me at length about it, so I know they will be pleased to hear that my Hon. Friend the Member for Meriden highlighted how farmers’ land is blighted across the country.”
Ms Churchill also highlighted and welcomed Mr Bhatti’s proposal of mobile household recycling centres.
She said: “That is a fascinating idea to explore a little more, particularly for items that are difficult to recycle, such as lithium batteries.”
There is an ongoing consultation and Mr Bhatti has encouraged everyone to get involved so the government can formulate a national response.
