MP CALLS FOR GOVERNMENT ACTION OVER TOILET CLOSURES

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 5th Sep 2006

Solihull MP, Lorely Burt has today written to the Minister of State for Local Government , Phil Woolas MP calling for Government action following the council's decision to close toilets across the borough.

Lorely Burt said:

"Public anger at the Conservative Council's decision to close toilets has been unprecedented, and that's not just me, but the local newspapers saying so.

"Yet again, apart from a temporary concession to keep one toilet open in Chelmsley Wood, peoples' protests have fallen on deaf ears.

"That is why I have today written to the Minister of State for Local Government suggesting it is time to consider a statutory requirement for councils to provide this basic human service, particularly in the light of Solihull Council's refusal to listen to public opinion.

"The Minister rejected calls from the British Toilet Association for such a requirement earlier this year, but the experience in Solihull calls for a rethink.

"The impact of toilet closures on visitors and tourists, public health and the needs of disabled people, young children and babies means it is just too important to leave to the mercies of a cost cutting council."