Environment: Plastic Bags

Debate between Lord De Mauley and Baroness Golding

Tuesday 14th May 2013 Lords Chamber

[Lord De Mauley]

My Lords, I am aware that there is action in countries on the other side of the channel such as France, Spain and Italy. It is worth saying that in 2011 the Commission consulted on a number of possible options for reducing the use of plastic carrier bags. We responded to the consultation and encouraged the Commission to undertake a full cost-benefit analysis as part of the development of options. It has published a response to the consultation and is currently considering its options.

[Baroness Golding]

Is the Minister aware that in some parts of Wales the charge for a plastic bag is 10p, in other parts 5p and in other parts 3p—and that if you know the shopkeeper, it is nothing? Is he also aware that the charge is supposed to be for charity, but I often see the money going into the shop’s till? Is he aware that this is happening in Wales?

[Lord De Mauley]

The noble Baroness points out an extremely good reason why we should look very carefully at what is happening in Wales before we act. I thank her for that.