Lib Dems float 5p ‘coffee cup tax’ to cut waste

A 5p levy will be placed on disposable beverage cups if the Liberal Democrats gain power.

The party said the move was needed because 2.5 billion such cups are being thrown away in the UK each year with fewer than one in 400 recycled.

The Lib Dems point to an 85% cut in plastic bag use since a similar levy was imposed as proof the measure would be beneficial.

The party’s environment spokeswoman, Baroness Parminter said: “Liberal Democrats brought in the plastic bag charge and it’s been proven highly successful – coffee cups are the next logical step.

“For the Liberal Democrats, protecting our environment and tackling climate change is a priority. We can and must act.”

Proceeds from the ‘coffee cup tax’ will go to charity, the party said.