Storm in a high-speed teacup as train operators ban use of reusable mugs for hot drinks

MICHAEL GOVE has criticised train companies that cite health and safety to stop passengers having their reusable hot drinks containers refilled on board.

Commuters complained after being told they could not refill their specially bought reusable plastic mugs, but must accept a disposable one for their tea and coffee. But these cups are plastic lined and cannot be recycled.

Mr Gove, who was himself pictured earlier this week with a disposable cup, said the ban was a “great pity”.

The Environment Secretary told The Daily Telegraph: “Having recently switched myself to a reusable cup I think it’s a great pity that rail travellers will be prevented from making their own contribution to reducing our reliance on materials that can’t be recycled.” It comes after Sir David Attenborough’s Blue Planet II sparked a national debate on the damage to the environment caused by plastics.

Three train companies cited health and safety as the reason why they would not allow passengers to use their own receptacles for hot drinks. Arriva Wales said: “Ultimately, staff are working on a moving train travelling up to 90mph serving very hot drinks which could scald, so they have to comply with certain risk assessments.

“Secondly, we use the number of cups given out as a means of stock control. The size of the cups we provide is the correct volume for how much tea or coffee should be provided in one sale.” A spokesman for Crosscountry Trains said although it was looking for ways of allowing reusable mugs, “the hot water in the drinks makes it dangerous”.

Great Western Railway said: “You can’t have people walking down carriages holding hot drinks in their own cups.” Virgin Trains had a more relaxed approach, allowing reusable cups. Mary Creagh, of the Environmental Audit committee, said train operators should “get on board to tackle the £2.5 billion trash mountain”.

Coffee chains encourage reusable mugs with discounts. Pret a Manger gives 50p off, Caffè Nero gives double stamps on loyalty cards and Starbucks and Costa both offer a 25p discount if customers have reusable mugs.