IT's war on the streets. And local MPs Barry Sheerman and Kali Mountford have urged Huddersfield people to back the new battle ... against litter.

New Government plans to improve the quality of our public spaces and to clean up local streets have been announced.

Their main target is fast food litter. Fast food operators, local authorities, major land owners, enforcement agencies and other interested parties have until January 30 next year to give their views on the proposed Voluntary Code of Best Environmental Practice for the fast food industry.

Mr Sheerman, Huddersfield Labour MP, welcomed the initiative. He said: "I think we've all had enough of fast food wrappers and cartons littering our streets.

"This new consultation is about finding better ways of keeping the streets of Huddersfield clean. Fast food companies and individuals need to take responsibility for reducing waste and keeping our neighbourhoods cleaner.

"This code will be good news for the public, fast food operators and local authorities. Its aim is to make public spaces cleaner and safer in which to visit, live and work."

The draft code gives practical advice on how to keep within the law and encourages creative thinking around the issues of litter management, using examples of existing good practice.

The plans centre on good waste management, food hygiene and clearing the outside of premises at the close of business, to successfully reduce fast food littering.

Kali Mountford, Colne Valley Labour MP, is a keen supporter of the initiative. She said: "Improving the environmental quality of our public spaces impacts directly on people's quality of life and the way they feel about their community. This is an effective way of making a practical difference to our local neighbourhoods."

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