Should retailers give customers paper bags?

I AGREE strongly with those who are upset by large retailers not placing newly purchased items of clothing in paper carrier bags (Letters). Marks & Spencer isn’t alone in this: since the 5p charge, I’ve had the same treatment from John Lewis. Primark make us feel our custom is valued by giving us a paper or card bag.

ANGELA RACZ, Stockport, Ches. I’M ALL for recycling and have no problem paying for bags for groceries or taking along my recycled bags to put them in, but going into a clothes shop and being handed my purchases without them being put in a bag is taking things too far. Half the pleasure of buying new clothes and shoes is having them wrapped and put in nice bags.

JILL SANDERSON, Worcester. SURELY someone who pays £229 for a leather dress (Mail) shouldn’t begrudge 5p for a plastic bag to put it in? They could then re-use it several times for other shopping. I have re-used plastic bags for years — it just needs to become a habit. M&S has charged for plastic bags in its food department for some time, and people seem quite happy either paying for them or bringing their own. I can’t understand why anyone should feel differently about clothes. I agree they could provide paper bags instead or would that cause deforestation?

Mrs ANNA ARPINO, Bedford.