At last, a plan for tax on single-use menace

PLANS to tax disposable plastics – including coffee cups – are being drawn up by the Chancellor.

In his spring statement next week, Philip Hammond will publish a detailed consultation document outlining possible charges on ‘single-use’ items.

The aim is to stem the tide of plastic junk poisoning the seas and littering our streets and countryside.

Among disposable items that could attract a levy are plastic plates, stirrers, cutlery and takeaway boxes, as well as packaging such as polystyrene.

The document will also suggest a charge on disposable coffee cups, despite reports ministers had ruled out a ‘latte levy’.

Treasury sources said the document was unlikely to propose specific tax rates but would instead invite suggestions on how high they might be. The document will also look at ways the tax system could be used to encourage recycling and the development of alternatives to plastic.

Tanya Steele, of the World Wide Fund for Nature, said: ‘The very least [the Government] should be working towards is a ban on avoidable single-use items such as plastic cups, cutlery and straws by 2025.

‘Businesses need to embrace the need to go single-use plastic free and the Treasury introducing a tax would send a signal to companies, retailers and consumers that time’s up on the sea of plastics.’

The step towards levies on throwaway plastic is another victory for the Mail’s Turn the Tide on Plastic campaign.

Last month we revealed Environment Secretary Michael Gove is set to ban plastic straws, and there are talks about a deposit return scheme for plastic bottles.