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

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they intend to introduce a plastic bottle deposit return scheme; and if so, whether any such scheme will be self-financing.

From 2 October to 20 November an independent working group set up under the Litter Strategy for England held a call for evidence on measures to reduce littering of drinks containers and promote recycling. The focus was rigid and flexible plastic, glass or metal drinks containers that are sold sealed, and used for the sale of alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages, often for consumption ‘on-the-go’. This included seeking evidence on how reward and return schemes could work in England.

The Working Group is due to provide advice to Ministers on potential incentives for drinks containers early in 2018. Any decisions on suitable measures to then take forward will rest with Ministers.