Defra's plastic bag charge tangled in red tape, warn MPs

Jessica Shankleman
clock

Environmental Audit Committee urges government to drop planned exemptions for small businesses and biodegradable plastic bags

For a government that claims to be wholeheartedly committed to slashing red tape, it seems odd to have planned a plastic carrier bag charge that is far more complex than needed. That is the conclusion...

To continue reading this article...

Join BusinessGreen

In just a few clicks you can start your free BusinessGreen Lite membership for 12 months, providing you access to:

  • Three complimentary articles per month covering the latest real-time news, analysis, and opinion from Europe’s leading source of information on the Green economy and business
  • Receive important and breaking news stories via our daily news alert
  • Our weekly newsletter with the best of the week’s green business news and analysis

Join now

 

Already a BusinessGreen member?

Login

More on Policy

'The transition will lead to savings overall': CCC underscores affordability of net zero goals

'The transition will lead to savings overall': CCC underscores affordability of net zero goals

Committee reiterates how delivering on net zero target is expected to result in costs equivalent to just 0.2 per cent of GDP, while unlocking multiple long-term benefits

James Murray
clock 04 February 2026 • 5 min read
Defra reveals UK's first plan for tackling 'forever chemicals'

Defra reveals UK's first plan for tackling 'forever chemicals'

Strategy promises to consult on PFAS drinking water limits and develop safer alternatives for harmful everyday materials

Stuart Stone
clock 03 February 2026 • 4 min read
Renewables Obligation scheme index change accused of 'damaging investor confidence'

Renewables Obligation scheme index change accused of 'damaging investor confidence'

Decision to change index-linked subsidy payments prompts criticism from investors, but others argue end to policy uncertainty could help unlock new deals

Michael Nelson, Investment Week
clock 02 February 2026 • 4 min read