When the consultant's final report of the review of litter legislation will be published.

The final report of the review of litter legislation has been published today (Bib. number 27094) and is available in the Parliament's Reference Centre.It is clear from the report that for various reasons the existing legislation relevant to litter and flytipping is not being fully utilised. The main reasons suggested are a lack of clear understanding of the powers available, of clear guidance, particularly with regard to enforcement procedures, and the resource implications for enforcing bodies. However, it is also clear that the existing legislation, when used properly, can be effective. The report confirms that the necessary powers are generally already in place. It highlights, however, the need for improved guidance to all key stakeholders in using the powers and for the need to ensure that the public is made more aware of the legislation.In light of the recommendations contained within the report, the Executive has already provided funding to Keep Scotland Beautiful (KSB) to:update the current Code of Practice on Litter and Refuse and provide guidance on its implementation;establish and service a Scottish Flytipping Forum consisting of all key stakeholders, andpay for the first year costs for all local authorities in Scotland to participate in the Local Environmental Audit and Management System (LEAMS).In addition, we intend to increase the current Fixed Penalty Fine for littering from £25 to £50.A full response by the Executive to the report's findings is available in the Parliament's Reference Centre (Bib. number 27095).