Environmental Protection (Plastic Straws, Cotton Buds and Stirrers) (England) Regulations 2020 Debate
Full Debate: Read Full DebateLord Randall of Uxbridge
Main Page: Lord Randall of Uxbridge (Conservative - Life peer)Department Debates - View all Lord Randall of Uxbridge's debates with the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
(4 years, 3 months ago)
Lords ChamberMy Lords, I wholeheartedly welcome these regulations, which I am sure would have been implemented earlier had it not been for the Covid-19 pandemic. I have found that the vast majority of the public is very supportive of measures to reduce plastic pollution, and that support ranges across all age groups and, indeed, businesses. I am sure that the forthcoming Environment Bill will offer further opportunities to continue on this path, particularly with the deposit return scheme, which we have been awaiting eagerly. I believe that the Government have taken appropriate consideration of those needing exemptions, particularly in relation to plastic straws, and I am very pleased that they are doing it in a way that will not stigmatise those who have to use them. I also know that manufacturers are working flat out to produce a suitable non-plastic straw for use when attached to a drinks container. There is a lot more to do to deal with the scourge of avoidable single-use plastics, but these regulations are another welcome step in the fight to save the environment.