Environmental Protection (Plastic Plates etc. and Polystyrene Containers etc.) (England) Regulations 2023

Baroness McIntosh of Hudnall Excerpts

Tuesday 20th June 2023 Grand Committee

[Lord Harlech (Con)]

I absolutely take the point and I am not downplaying it; I am just saying that this SI is focused on single-use plastics. However, I would like to reassure the noble Baroness that we remain in constant conversation with food retailers and food service providers to make sure that excessive costs are not being put on consumers at this very difficult time.

The noble Baroness, Lady Bakewell of Hardington Mandeville, raised the important issue of who will pay the charge. The supplier of the product will pay, not the end-user; I hope that provides some clarity. She also spoke about Scotland and Wales, the devolved nations. I think we are having a Division.

[The Deputy Chairman of Committees (Baroness McIntosh of Hudnall) (Lab)]

My Lords, there is indeed now a Division in the Chamber. The Committee will need to adjourn for 10 minutes. Does the Minister have much more to say? If not, we might be able to clear this instrument and start fresh after the Division with a new one. Otherwise, we will adjourn and pick up with him later.

[Lord Harlech (Con)]

I was asked a great many questions and I would like the opportunity to answer.

[The Deputy Chairman of Committees (Baroness McIntosh of Hudnall) (Lab)]

My Lords, in that case we will adjourn the Committee for 10 minutes and return to the Minister afterwards.