Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Lord Dubs (Labour). It was answered by Lord Rooker (Labour) on Thursday, 2 November 2006.

Plastic Bags

Question: What discussions they have had with the retail industry about reducing the number of plastic bags offered free of charge to customers.

Answer: My Lords, Ministers from Defra and the Scottish Executive recently met UK retailers to discuss a draft voluntary code of practice on paper and plastic carrier bags. The Government and retailers have committed to work together to encourage the reuse and recycling of bags, and agreed targets for their reduction. It is hoped that as many retailers as possible will sign up to the code, resulting in a significant change in consumer behaviour.

Secondary information