Newspaper Column – The Cornishman– 20/04/26

• Pavement politics took a new turn this week as strategies for the eradication unwanted vegetation (weeds to some) on pavements became controversial. At the heart of the problem, of whether to use toxic weedkiller glyphosate this summer, Cornwall Council sought opinion and partnership of parish and town councils too late. 

I’ve recommended the Council halts its plans; further consults and reviews best science; considers using a more localised, community-led method; and awaits the outcome of a planned government science review. 

I agree with Cornwall Council, both that there have been numerous complaints about the safety and integrity of some pavements where vegetation has become uncontrolled, and that decisions would be needed by the end of April, if it is to be effective. However, it hasn’t provided sufficient time to satisfactorily consult. 

So, it should be paused this year; to give time for sufficient further scrutiny and review of the science. Much of the science quoted in discussion around this has included material from sources closely associated with companies with a commercial interest.  

I’d welcome the opportunity to consult on management. I’d prefer it to be devolved; to parish and town councils and to provide neighbourhoods down to the street level to maintain their own street front; to provide council tax rebates as an incentive. Those neighbourhoods which wish to avoid the use of a vegetation control measure they’re unhappy with could use their own lawful method. 

I acknowledge that sometimes the most effective method of controlling the most seriously invasive non-native species, such as Japanese Knotweed, can best be achieved using syringe injected herbicide. However, decisions on the justifiable control of weeds on pavements needs to follow a full examination of the facts and with sufficient time to properly consult. 

 

• We must do all we can to face down these widely reported and unacceptable anti-semitic incidents. Those responsible must be apprehended and brought to justice.  

Though barely reported at all by the media, there has also been a similar rise in attacks on Muslims and Mosques around the country.  

Latest annual records show 4,478 incidents of hate crimes targeted at Muslims and 2,873 at Jewish people. Though there seems to be significant under reporting of incidents against Muslims, with many Mosques reporting limited follow-up from the police, which in turn is likely to discourage reporting. On the other hand, the Jewish community point to a statistical higher preponderance of attacks when considering the smaller size of its population. Whether these factors balance themselves is for others to conjecture. There isn’t a victimisation competition. 

Whether Anti-semitic or Islamophobic, or indeed aimed at any group in society, these incidents are an attack on our whole country; are against our values; values which celebrate diversity and which demonstrate tolerance and support for people of all faith groups and none. 

We must stand together against these vile people and against intolerance in all its forms.