The 5p charge on single-use bags has been implemented in Wales and Northern Ireland in order to encourage shoppers to re-use bags to reduce the strain on the environment. Scotland is also considering bringing in the charge, but it appears that England may be hesitant on introducing it.
Previously, Ministers had said that they were impressed by the Welsh scheme which has apparently cut the use of plastic bags by 95% since the charge was introduced in 2011 but Conservative MP Richard Benyon said, "We recognise the pressures on household budgets at this time; levying even a small charge may not be the best option."
However, Mr Benyon also said that they were monitoring the results of the scheme in Wales, and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has not ruled out the charge. A Defra spokesperson said, "We want to work with retailers to help them lift their game to cut the number of bags they hand out. We are monitoring the results of the charging scheme in Wales and the outcome of the Scottish consultation on a charge."
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