The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has submitted a response to the draft regulations on introducing a charge for single use carrier bag in Wales, urging the Welsh Government to not to “create chaos” for retailers and consumers by rushing through the charge and by setting it too high.
ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “The implementation date of March 2011 proposed in the consultation is completely unrealistic.
“It is likely that the regulations will not be finalised until December 2010 and retailers need to have certainty before they can implement the changes. The requirements will be significant and it is important that retailers are given sufficient time to introduce the charge.
“It will not benefit businesses or customers if the introduction of the charge is mired in chaos and confusion.
“The minimum charge of 7p for a single-use carrier bag is far too high,” said Lowman. “The aim of the charge is to change behaviour not unfairly penalise shoppers. The cost of 7p will put single use carrier bags on a par with bags for life, which could have the unintended consequences of people purchasing bags for life but using them as a single use bag.
“We are urging the Welsh Government to significantly reduce the minimum level of charge.”
Source: ACS
