Binmen's BNP flyer warning

Council chiefs have pledged to tighten inspections after a BNP flyer was seen on a bin lorry. Formal warnings have now been issued to the people responsible for displaying the leaflet.

The lorry was doing its rounds in Worsley, Salford, when a resident caught the flyer on camera. Salford council bosses have now warned staff that promoting political parties is against the rules.

Union bosses say they hope lessons have been learned. Coun Joe Murphy said: "I have explained to staff that some people may find such material offensive. And I reminded them that the council has strict rules on promoting political parties in this way."

Manchester Evening News

BNP leaflet sparks probe

An investigation has been launched after a Salford council bin lorry was spotted displaying a BNP leaflet in the windscreen.

The bin lorry was doing its rounds in Lumber Lane, Worsley, when a resident captured the prominently positioned leaflet on camera.

Ben Cardwell, 24, who lives with fiancee Louise Morris, 29, said: "It took me totally by surprise. I was shocked by it. I called my fiancee to have a look and we both couldn't believe it. I wanted to put a complaint to the council. We didn't think it was allowed to put stickers up supporting any political party, never mind the BNP."

The council say investigations are continuing, but union bosses say the staff responsible should be suspended with immediate effect.

Alec McFadden, of Salford Unison, said: "I have never known any public authority to allow support of any political party, whether that be Labour or the Conservatives. It makes it ten times worse that it is the BNP - a fascist, racist organisation. The council should be taking immediate action and should suspend whoever is involved as soon as possible. The investigation should take place to find out who is involved but the council should be seen to respond quickly. This is a very serious matter."

Salford council has confirmed formal action will be taken against whoever put the flyer on the wagon, but has stressed it is still investigating the claims.

Coun Joe Murphy said: "The council has clear rules against using council property to promote political parties in this way. I've asked for a full investigation and formal action will be taken. However, until the investigation has been completed it's not appropriate to comment any further."

Manchester Evening News