 The Lib Dems say cleaning up gum is costing taxpayers millions |
Millions of pounds are being spent on cleaning chewing gum from London's pavements and street furniture, according to the Liberal Democrats. A report by the London Assembly Lib Dems shows councils and transport organisations are spending up to �4m a year removing it.
Many of the 33 London boroughs surveyed said chewing gum companies should try to develop a biodegradable form.
The report proposes a five-point plan to combat discarded chewing gum.
Proposals in the Getting to Grips with Gum report include introducing a penny per pack levy on gum manufacturers which will go directly to public bodies to deal with clean-up costs.
Insisting that the manufacturers print larger messages about correct disposal is also proposed.
Other ideas included launching a publicity campaign highlighting the damage it causes and installing more bins.
London Assembly Lib Dem Environment spokesman, Mike Tuffrey said: "London is slowly losing the battle to clean the streets of chewing gum.
"Chewing gum that is irresponsibly spat on to the street is a nuisance, an eyesore and is costing taxpayers millions each year to clean up."
He said ministers and the mayor of London must tackle the problem before it spirals out of control.
One-Minute World News 
News services
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
London is slowly losing the battle to clean the streets of chewing gum 
