"Stop wasting our time" - Farrin

12.00.00am GMT Thu 23rd Nov 2006

Proper debate, consultation and consideration of all waste issues needs to be undertaken

Councillor John Farrin, Shadow portfolio holder for waste, has hit out at recent announcements from the Conservative Executive member for waste, ruling out fortnightly rubbish collections in West Berkshire.

Councillor Farrin commented:

"As far as I can see, there has been absolutely no process followed - this announcement comes completely out of the blue. To my mind, it shows the Tories' complete lack of respect for democratic process - the new waste contract has yet to be finalised, go through a meeting of the Council's Executive and be signed over the coming months. This proposal has been through no committees, nothing. If this is Councillor Findlay's personal position he must make it clear - otherwise it seems reasonable to assume he speaks on behalf of the council, and that this must therefore be official council policy."

Councillor Farrin continued:

"I intend to follow up on this matter to find out what protocol has been adhered to, if any. It would be tremendously reassuring to know that members of the Tory administration are acting responsibly and in an accountable fashion, using due and proper process. Waste collection and recycling rates are serious issues which need appropriate consideration and West Berkshire Liberal Democrats are looking into all possibilities, supported by serious science. People expect proper debate and consideration of these issues and we will ensure that this takes place before anything is foisted on them."