Environmental Audit CommitteeFurther written evidence submitted by the Cabinet Office

The ‘Nudge Unit’ or Behavioural Insights Team did not have any formal discussions with Defra on the proposed plastic bag charge. Although there is good evidence that introducing a 5p charge for single use carrier bags in Wales did dramatically decrease the number of bags issued, specifically by about 80%.

All the charging schemes in place and proposed across the UK have similar structures. They put in place a 5p charge on carrier bags in order to reduce litter and the environmental cost of producing all that plastic.

There are differences across the UK to reflect local circumstances. In England the charge will focus on plastic bags as it is a targeted, proportionate approach to the problem of carrier bag distribution and littering. The Government will exempt small and medium-sized enterprises to reduce the administrative burden. We also intend to exempt biodegradable bags that meet certain standards.

21 January 2014