Scrooge council bosses ban binmen from accepting Christmas tips and gifts from grateful familes
Policy brought in where refuse collectors are paid as little as £15,000 per year
SCROOGE council chiefs have banned binmen from accepting cash Christmas tips.
Those taking small gifts from grateful households could also face action.
The policy has been brought in by Aylesbury Vale District Council, Bucks, where refuse collectors are paid as little as £15,000 per year.
Fiona Farmer, from the Unite union, said: “This edict is mean-spirited and misguided.
“It should be rescinded immediately.
“This is not high-scale bribery and backhanders, but recognition of a job well done.”
A spokesman for the council confirmed staff are allowed to accept only “low-value, modest items” as gifts.
Councillor Howard Mordue added: “In common with all employees, they are not permitted to accept gifts and hospitality at work and this would include tips and gifts at Christmas.
“In the past customers have been generous in offering mince pies, cakes or biscuits that can be shared with colleagues, and these have generally been accepted as appropriate.
“If we become aware of an allegation that an employee has breached our Code of Conduct, we would normally investigate the matter, as a potential disciplinary issue.”
