Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps he is taking to encourage large retailers to minimise the amount of the 5p levy on single use plastic bags retained for administration and to maximise the amount distributed to charity.

The regulations do not specify where the proceeds of the charge are distributed, but retailers are expected and encouraged to donate the proceeds of the charge (after deducting VAT and other reasonable costs) to good causes such as charities or community groups. Our data shows that over the 18 months since the charge was introduced at least £95 million was donated to a variety of good causes covering the arts, education, environment, health, heritage and sports as well as local causes chosen by customers or staff.

The Single Use Carrier Bags Charges (England) Order 2015 is due for review before 5 October 2020, which will require an assessment of cost and benefits. Any changes to amend the policy ahead of this timeframe will be considered as part of the Government’s forthcoming resources and waste strategy.