A FIFE MSP has called for more measures to deal with the "scourge" of fly tipping which is causing issues across the Kingdom.

Murdo Fraser, who is Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, believes penalties for those found dumping rubbish illegally should be increased.

He recently put forward an amendment which was agreed and included in the Scottish Government's Circular and Economy (Scotland) Bill, which will mean that fixed penalty notices can reach £1,000 if needed.

The bill includes some measures to deal with fly-tipping and Mr Fraser has been told by Gillian Martin MSP, minister for Climate Action, that another amendment he has put forward on clarifying strict liability will be looked at in the next week.

READ MORE: Fife Council hails bulky uplifts despite fly-tipping concern

“Fife Council recently announced that fly-tipping had increased in the region by 12 per cent despite the local authority scrapping a £30 fee to uplift large household items in April last year, and I find this very concerning indeed," he said.

"The council’s environment services said although 55,547 free uplifts had taken place in the 12 months following scrapping the charge, the number of fly-tipping incidents increased to 3,483 – up 373 on the previous year.

“This shocking total included the dumping of 47 car tyres at the roadside near Valleyfield. This is alarming and just emphasises the need for a variety of measures needed to tackle the scourge of fly-tipping.”

Mr Fraser said such incidents have spurred him onto campaign for tougher measures.

READ MORE: Anger over fly-tipping of 47 tyres on back road in West Fife

“It seems that strict penalties could be one of the main deterrents to clamp down on fly-tipping as the scrapping of charging for uplifts of larger household items in Fife clearly has not reduced instances of it in the Kingdom," he said.

“I am also keen to ensure strict liability for the dumping of fly-tipping on land becomes enforceable, and I’m pleased that the Scottish Government minister has agreed to look into this further.

“It is unfair placing the burden on removing fly-tipping on to innocent landowners so I’m hoping the Scottish Government agree to this amendment.”