Written question asked by Eddie McGrady (Social Democratic & Labour Party) on Monday, 16 June 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 23 June 2003. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Basildon (Labour) on Monday, 23 June 2003 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what assessment he has made of the impact of the Retail Charter on the volume of plastic bags used in supermarkets in Northern Ireland. - Inc ref to Phase 2 of the 'Wake up to Waste' campaign.

Answer: Mr. McGrady: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the impact of the Retail Charter on the volume of plastic bags used in supermarkets in Northern Ireland. [120138] Angela Smith: The Retail Partnership Charter, which involves most of the major retailers in Northern Ireland, was launched in October 2002 as part of Phase 2 of the `Wake up to Waste' campaign. The purpose of the Charter is to reduce waste produced by retailers and consumers. Its commitments included: promoting the `reduce, re-use, recycle' message to staff and customers; reducing the use of plastic bags; providing recycling collection points; and implementing best practice throughout all business operations. The Department is currently evaluating Phase 2 of the campaign, which concluded on 31 March 2003. The report, which will be available next month, will provide information on the impact of the initiative on consumer behaviour, including the use of plastic bags. I will arrange for the hon. Member to receive the findings of the report.

Secondary information