ACS

In his first environment speech as Prime Minister, Gordon Brown has said he would like to see a total ban on the 13bn single-use plastic bags used in the UK annually, describing them as "the most visible symbol of environmental health".

ACS previously expressed concerns with the proposed London-wide ban, calling for more thought on the matter, and we are encouraged that Downing Street did not appear keen on the idea of local councils being empowered to impose local bans on such bags.

Brown is due to hold discussions with supermarket chains, the British Retail Consortium and other parties with the aim of gaining a voluntary phasing out. ACS Will continue to be involved in discussions surrounding this issue to ensure consistency in this initiative and highlight the effect this will have on small retailers.