§ Mr. KidneyTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what proposals she has for reducing householders' use of plastic products that are not biodegradeable. [70257]
§ Mr. MeacherWe are concerned that re-use and recycling of plastic remains very low and that non-biodegradeable plastic remains in and litters the environment almost indefinitely. A substitute for plastic made from potato starch is now being developed, which is being used for some types of packaging by some retailers. Such material is entirely biodegradeable and can be composted. A number of companies are marketing degradeable plastics technology and products manufactured from these materials. These new technologies are based on modified plastics manufactured from mineral oil and still have to be sent for recycling after use. But we do strongly support the development of boidegradeable plastics made from non-fossil sources.
§ Jeremy CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what consultation she is undertaking on the introduction of a charge for plastic bags given out in shops; and if she will make a statement. [79638]
§ John HealeyI have been asked to reply.
Taxes are a matter for the Chancellor.