Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner urges Birmingham bin collectors to accept ‘improved’ deal

Angela Rayner has urged striking bin collectors in Birmingham to accept an “improved” deal as she met with volunteers clearing rubbish that has piled up on the city’s streets.

Unite members walked out last month in a bitter dispute over pay and jobs.

The Deputy Prime Minister and local government minister, Jim McMahon, visited Birmingham on Thursday to meet with staff involved in clearing the backlog and volunteers clearing up their area.

Ms Rayner, who is also Communities Secretary, said: “The people of Birmingham are our first priority – this dispute is causing misery and disruption to residents and the backlog must be dealt with quickly to address public health risks.

“My department is working with Birmingham City Council to support its response to accelerate clearing the backlog and rapidly improve the situation on the ground. Neighbouring authorities are providing additional vehicles and crews, and we are providing logistical support.

“I have pressed both sides to negotiate at pace to urgently find a resolution. There is now a better offer on the table and I would urge Unite to suspend the action and accept the improved deal so we achieve fairness for both workers and residents of this city.”

Cllr Robert Alden, Leader of the Opposition for Birmingham City Council, said: "21,000 tonnes of uncollected rubbish and a ratepidemic is what Birmingham Labour have let residents suffer after 13 years in office. While it is welcome that the Government are coming to see Birmingham, Brummies don't want visits; they want clean streets, the rats caught, and their bins collected on time. The best way to do that is achange of control. Only backing the Local Conservatives can deliver that change for Birmingham."

Cllr Ewan Mackey, Deputy Leader of the Opposition at Birmingham City Council said: "Brummies deserve to know if the Deputy Prime Minister agrees with the Health Secretary and the Local Conservative Group that the city is facing a public health emergency and action is needed urgently or if she agrees with theLabour Leader of the Council, who voted to block declaring a public health emergency and blockingallowing Councillors to discuss how to end the strike and clean up the city."