CRAIG Hoy, a Conservative MSP for South Scotland, has encouraged local people to respond to a proposed bill to crackdown on the scourge of fly-tipping.
Mr Hoy’s comes after his party colleague Murdo Fraser launched his consultation on his Member’s Bill on the subject.
Mr Fraser is aiming to significantly improve on current legislation in relation to fly-tipping which dates back to 1990. His bill is being backed by organisations including NFU Scotland and Scottish Land & Estates.
The bill seeks to increase sanctions for fly-tipping, including by lifting the current fixed-penalty notice of £200, improve data collection of incidents and to guarantee the person on whose land waste is disposed on is not responsible for its removal.
He is also proposing a strict liability, which would mean the generator of the waste would be responsible for clearing it up and paying any fines.
Craig Hoy MSP wants as many people as possible to make their feelings known during the consultation period which runs until May 23.
He commented: “I am pleased to be backing my colleague Murdo Fraser’s plans to crackdown on fly-tipping.
“All too often fly-tipping is a scourge on our beautiful landscape and communities in Midlothian.
“It is completely selfish and unacceptable to dump waste at unauthorised locations. It is the public, landowners and our local authorities in Midlothian who are left to pick up the pieces.
“This new bill is essential for strengthening current laws against fly-tipping which stretch back decades.
“I would encourage everyone in Midlothian to get involved during the consultation process in the coming weeks and months and make their feelings known.
“I also hope that this sensible piece of legislation will secure cross-party backing from my fellow MSPs in the Scottish Parliament.”
