LNP flags big kick in the ‘butt’

DEMERIT point penalties for motorists who recklessly toss lit cigarette butts from their cars would be considered by a Frecklington government.

The Bulletin can reveal the LNP will look at a crackdown on drivers who throw cigarettes from their vehicles, warning that their thoughtlessness could lead to a natural disaster.

Opposition Leader Deb Frecklington said that there was no excuse for endangering lives and homes, insisting that the state’s laws should properly reflect that.

“The LNP will do all it can to fight bushfires and that includes considering much tougher penalties for throwing cigarettes from vehicles,” she said.

“The LNP will consult with the community on introducing demerit penalty points for drivers and doubling all penalties during total fire bans.”

A similar penalty came into effect in New South Wales yesterday, where drivers who flick lit cigarette butts from their car will now lose five demerit points – making it the first time that demerit points have applied to such an offence in Australia.

Those who are busted during a total fire ban will lose 10 demerit points and cop a massive fine of up to $11,000, while passengers who are caught out will be fined at least $660.

Ms Frecklington said the behaviour must be stamped out, pointing out that the bushfire that destroyed the Binna Burra Lodge in the Scenic Rim in September was started by a discarded cigarette.

The fine for dangerous littering in Queensland is currently $533.

Environment Minister Leeanne Enoch said demerit point penalties for cigarette butt littering was not being actively considered by the Government “at this time”.