News

7th March 2002

John Bowis MEP speaks in Beckenham warning against another fridge fiasco!

John Bowis – Conservative Member of the European Parliament for Beckenham & the London region – was in Beckenham on Wednesday 6th March 2002, speaking at the Annual General Meeting of the Beckenham Conservative Association. John Bowis – Environment spokesman - used the opportunity to highlight the consequences of a European Directive concerning the recycling of hazardous chemicals in household electrical items. John Bowis warned that if we are to avoid a situation like the fridge fiasco, the government must make adequate preparations.

Speaking from Beckenham John Bowis said, “The European Parliament is considering a proposal at the moment concerning the recycling of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment such as TVs, computers, game consoles and videos. The aim is to encourage the recycling of electronic waste and help protect the environment.”

John Bowis continued, “In principle there is no doubt that this is an excellent idea that will have obvious benefits to the environment. However, if we are to avoid another fridge fiasco the government must ensure that adequate preparations are put in place before this scheme is implemented. I am sure that the people of Beckenham are more than willing to support initiatives that encourage greater recycling, but the facilities must be in place to enable them to do so.”

“In the European Parliament I am campaigning for the European Commission and the British government to fully consider the practical implications of this proposal and ensure that retailers and producers of electrical goods are properly consulted and listened too. The last thing the people of Beckenham want is another fridge fiasco, caused by government incompetence and mismanagement.”

John Bowis added, “I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome Richard Balfe to the Conservative team of MEPs for London, following his defection from Labour. There is no doubt that Richard is man of integrity and principle. I look forward to working with him in the European Parliament in the interests of the people of Beckenham and the London region as a whole.”