Decision on refuse overruled

A DECISION by Michael Heseltine to close down the London Borough of Haringey's own refuse collection service was overturned by the High Court yesterday

Two judges ruled the closure order, due to take effect in the new year, was legally flawed.

Mr Heseltine acted last March, while Secretary of State for the Environment, after allegations of 'anti-competitive behaviour' by the Labour-controlled council in awarding its direct service organisation (DSO) a contract for refuse collection and street cleaning work despite two lower bids from the private sector.

Lord Justice Evans, sitting with Mr Justice Otton, ruled that Mr Heseltine had been legally obliged to consider allowing the DSO to put in a new bid, subject to certain conditions, before ordering a bar.