Labour-run Haringey Council’s commitment to recycling was cast into doubt this week after comments by a senior Labour member saying that he was not concerned at reports that recycling volumes had fallen. Lib Dems have expressed their astonishment at comments from Cllr Brian Haley, the Labour cabinet member for environment, who was responding to Lib Dem questions at the Full Council meeting on 15 th Oct 2007 voicing their concern at the 1.1% fall in recycling in Haringey.

Lib Dems have criticised Haringey Council’s lack of action and have set up their own ‘Make mine a double’ campaign to help increase recycling by telling residents how to obtain a second recycling box – something the Labour council does almost nothing to publicise.

Local MP Lynne Featherstone’s successful postcard campaign isbeing rolled out to tens of thousands of homes in the borough.

An ungracious Cllr Haley failed to welcome the campaign – but had little choice but to agree to residents receiving their extra green boxes.

Cllr Bob Hare, Lib Dem Sustainability Spokesperson, comments:

“I am shocked at the way at which Labour seem to think that decreasing rates of recycling can be disregarded without explanation. Every effort needs to be made to keep residents’ enthusiasm strong and if there is the slightest downturn in rates we must act. This is something Labour don’t seem to grasp.”

Local MP Lynne Featherstone adds:

“Cllr Haley has agreed to provided the extra boxes – albeit through gritted teeth. It’s a pity he couldn’t do so with more enthusiasm, as we need to encourage recycling as much as we can.”