I KNOW my critics often accuse me of spouting rubbish, but it looks like all my arguments over many years will be finally vindicated – by a load of rubbish.

Of course, I only refer to rubbish in the nicest sense possible in that I am talking about plans by the five Tory-controlled councils in Bucks to share their bin services.

As this paper reported last week, there are moves afoot for one all-powerful waste authority to be set up for the whole of the county.

This body could be responsible for collections, disposal and street cleaning.

But, I hear you cry, why does this matter? As long as the rubbish is picked up on time, then surely there will be no difference to the man on the Wycombe omnibus?

Ah, but there will be, because this could be the beginning of the end for the nonsensical system of local government which has plagued us for eternity in Buckinghamshire.

Take bins for example. The district councils are responsible for collecting them, but the county council is the body which disposes of the waste.

Similarly, take council tax – and please take it as far away as possible. The districts collect it but the majority of the bill belongs to the county. It is confusing to the average person and, as a result, not particularly democratic because the public invariably cannot get to grips with what council is responsible for their services.

Amalgamating waste is surely the first step to linking up all local services in one big unitary local authority which will avoid duplication and confusion.

For real grass-roots local democracy, tiny town councils can deal with the footpaths, street lights and play areas.

This will cut out a large swathe of bureaucracy and make things far more effective. For once, therefore, hearing our councillors talk rubbish has really cheered me up.