Spy chips hidden in 2.5 million British garbage cans

The growing threat of a stealth tax on the rubbish we throw away was exposed by startling figures yesterday. More than 2.5 million British homes now have wheelie bins fitted with microchips to weigh their contents. This is an increase of nearly two-thirds in just a year. The bins, which can be electronically identified and weighed, are designed for 'pay-as-you-throw' rubbish tax schemes. Under such schemes - which are likely to be hugely unpopular - families who put out more waste will pay higher taxes to their local council. Disclosure of the rapid spread of chipped bins followed the announcement this week of the first council to bring in a bin tax. Bristol City is presenting its scheme as a reward for recyclers, with cash payments to homes that leave out less rubbish.