DEFRA has defended guidelines on fixed-penalty fines for householders, which have been criticised by the Conservative local government spokesman, Eric Pickles, for creating ‘an army of municipal bin bullies'. A spokesman said the fly-tipping guide was published in July 2006. ‘This is not new guidance. 'Fixed-penalty notices are an alternative to prosecution and were called for by local authorities so that they could react to the severity and frequency of the environmental offence, and ensure our streets are kept clean,' he said.
