Podcast: Owner of Fairtrade Vending Ltd in Strood says it's 'bureaucracy gone mad' after being told he needs a waste carrier licence
  • 11 months ago
The owner of a Strood-based vending machine firm has spoken of his shock after receiving a council letter saying he needs a waste carriers licence.It's after some empty coffee wrappers were found in one of his company's vans during a random stop on the Gillingham business park.Hear from Mike Steel who has been speaking to reporter Alex Langridge.Also in today's podcast, a former asylum seeker says the Prime Minister's plan to tackle small boat crossings, punishes the wrong people.The illegal migration bill, which is currently going through parliament, will prevent anyone who arrives in the UK via the dangerous route from claiming asylum.Rishan arrived in the UK when she was 17 and is now a youth influencer for Kent Refugee Action Network.The biggest exercise of its kind since before the pandemic has taken place at Margate's Dreamland to test emergency services.Firefighters, police and paramedics had to see how they'd respond to a music concert crowd that had been exposed to a potentially harmful chemical.And, after the Pride Flag was raised above Medway Council's offices for the first time, campaigners are hoping the Trans Flag will be next.Events are taking place this month to raise awareness and show support for the LGBT community.