Coventry MP apologises after littering fine for fag butt

A Coventry MP has apologised to his constituents after being fined for littering



Long-serving Labour MP for Coventry South Jim Cunningham has been condemned for ‘setting a bad example’ for people in the city.

Mr Cunningham said: “Some weeks ago I was rushing for a train at Coventry Station and in my haste to get the train I absent mindedly dropped a cigarette outside the station for which I received a £50 fine.

“It was a mistake, I shouldn’t have done it and I apologise.”

It is believed he was handed a £100 fine which he paid within two weeks. Consequently the fine was reduced to £50.

Coventry City Council’s website says it has a ‘zero-tolerance policy’ for people who drop litter.

The council has a team of officers who carry out regular patrols, issuing fines to offenders.

Leader of the Coventry Conservative group councillor Gary Ridley said: “I hope Jim Cunningham apologises.

“Casual littering sets a terrible example especially with current fly-tipping epidemic.

“Along with Julia Lepoidevin, Pete Male and other Coventry Conservatives I regularly do litter picks which wouldn’t be needed if it wasn’t for this kind of behaviour.”

Jim Cunningham has been MP for Coventry South since the new seat was formed in 1997.

It has been a stable Labour seat, despite being targeted in recent general elections by the Conservatives.

No doubt his fine will be added to his expenses .
Did you see that MPs can claim up to £4000 a month office expenses without having to prove where any of that money was spent?

I think this speaks volumes.

No matter what rush I'm in, I'd never do this. - Complete contempt for the environment that others live in.

And Jock, you are no doubt right, likely this fine will one way or another end up on expenses.

This is how India deals with cigarette butts thrown on the floor we have become unimaginative here. Any tabacco from a cigarette butt kills any weeds if you soak it in water then pour the water on weeds. Real tobacco is good for the brain it's clears the brain.