Clause 20 - Litter clearing notices

Part of Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Bill – in a Public Bill Committee at 10:15 am on 20 January 2005.

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Photo of Alun Michael Alun Michael Minister of State (Rural Affairs), Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs 10:15, 20 January 2005

I think that one has to be careful. Subsection (6) says:

''A period specified . . . may not be less than 28 days beginning on the day on which the notice is served.''

It allows for a longer period to be given in particular circumstances, such as in summer. Local authorities could make that judgment. We have to specify a minimum period that we consider reasonable.

If someone came forward and said that they are now aware of a situation and will deal with it, most local authorities would respond by saying, ''Let's see if it happens'', and give the person a little leeway. However, local authorities also frequently have the experience of someone coming forward and putting off the evil day by saying that they will deal with the problem, but nothing happens. Such matters are best left to local judgment and the application of common sense, and that is the direction in which we would point local authorities. I repeat that we are not dealing with new issues. Local authorities have much experience of dealing with such circumstances.