TACTICS used to track down terrorists must not be used against dog foulers or litter droppers, a Government minister has said.

Communities minister John Healey has written to Bolton Council’s chief executive, Sean Harriss, warning against the use of anti-terrorism legislation for trivial matters.

The Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA) was introduced to help security agencies carry out surveillance against terror suspects.

But the powers have been used by local authorities such as Bolton to catch people carrying out minor offences.

In his letter, Mr Healey stresses a “proper and proportionate” approach should be taken when using powers granted by the Government under the act and that it should not be used for prosecuting people for offences such as dog fouling or littering.

He said: “I would be grateful if you could ensure that relevant staff in your council understand the correct approach.”

Bolton Council used spy camera operations to catch “dirty dog” owners and litter-louts.

The council caught two flytippers, one graffiti vandal and one dog fouler by using CCTV surveillance in the 18 months to June this year.

In 2006, an undercover CCTV van filmed four dog walkers in Breightmet failing to clear up after their pets. Each resulted in a £50 fine for the dog owners.

The council agreed to review its surveillance policy after receiving a letter from the Local Government Association in June, but now Mr Healey has sent a second letter, reinforcing the issue.

A council spokesman said Mr Harriss had not received the letter yet.