The recycling, or resource minister, had already submitted a video address for the start of the show. But at the last minute he suddenly opted to head to the NEC on the last day of the show with the organisers even having to round-up an audience for him, in stark contrast to the turnout for the secretary of state, Eric Pickles, the previous day.
Mr Rogerson proceeded to read his script and give one of the most lack-lustre presentations at the show, appearing more intent on almost saying goodbye to his audience than lifting their spirits on any front. He seemed to be signalling either that he will be stepping down from his post after the LibDem Party Conference or will go at the end of the year when the coalition may reach an agreement on ‘dissolving’ ahead of the General Election.
So, why did he bother to attend? This is a real puzzle – there were no new announcements, he talked about water for a couple of minutes and repeated the government’s pledge on waste crime for the umpteenth time. He also told us yet again how he had been linked to the APSRG group where he met the waste sector in the form of spending some time with the Waste Recycling Group – can he believe that this is again of interest? Some sources close to this involvement suggest that Mr Rogerson was rather less enamoured with his experience with WRG than he lets on.
Yes, Mr Pickles is not to everyone’s taste. But, he did turn up with fire in his belly to make his point known. If just a little of the secretary of state’s interest was to brush off on to Mr Rogerson, then the waste sector might be grateful for at least a little leadership and enthusiasm.
Instead, the recycling minister’s point blank refusal to speak to the press and his desire to get out of the NEC as fast he could, came as of little surprise after a dull session.
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