§ Dr. KumarTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps are being taken to enforce regulations limiting excessive packaging on products. [137543]
§ Mr. TimmsThe Packaging (Essential Requirements) Regulations 2003 are enforced by local Trading Standards Offices who work closely with the packaging industry and producers to advise them on best practice in packaging design and to resolve complaints of excessive packaging. A recent study commissioned by the DTI highlights the extensive changes brought about since the introduction of the Essential Requirements. These relate to improvements in packaging design, including minimisation. This report can be viewed at www.dti.gov.uk/sustainability/finalpackagingreport.htm and is also available from DTI publications order line (0870 150 2500).