Lib Dem Success on Carrier Bags

2.00.00pm GMT Fri 19th Oct 2007

Cllr Paul Whitehead says that only with the engament of local people and retailers will any move to reduce the environmental damage done by throw away shopping bags be successful

A Liberal Democrat proposal to tackle the environmental cost of throw away shopping bags has received overwhelming support at a Bedford Borough Council meeting. The successful motion could lead to a ban, a levy or a deposit scheme for throw away shopping bags in the borough.

Commenting on the issue, Liberal Democrat Group Environment Spokesperson Cllr Paul Whitehead said:

"The success of this motion at the council meeting is just a first step, but it provides a tremendous opportunity for Bedford Borough to set a local and national example on an important environmental issue.'

"We will now be pressing the Executive to work with businesses and local people to produce effective, workable proposals on reducing the environmental and financial cost of disposable carrier bags. Local residents will expect to have the chance to have their say on this issue, and only with the support and engagement of local residents and retailers will any initiative be successful. This is a chance for this Borough to make a practical difference while also making a bold statement about our commitment to the environment.'

"It's great that Bedford Borough has taken a lead on this, and now councillors in Luton and Norwich are looking to do something similar following our success."