Newport West AM, Rosemary Butler, speaking at Question Time in the Welsh Assembly, asked Environment Minister Jane Davidson to join her in congratulating Newport City Council for reaching its recycling targets. But she went on to ask her about the disposal of plastic bags. ”

" What is the Welsh Assembly Government doing to reduce the appalling problem we have with plastic bags in Wales?"

The Minister started by congratulating Newport City Council.She said:

"I'm very happy to congratulate Newport because they have reached the  Assembly target over a year early, and that is due to their outstanding efforts in recycling.

"Of course we are currently looking at a Legislative Competence Order to seek powers from the UK Government  that would enable us to take the appropriate approach to outlaw free single use of plastic bags in Wales."

Wednesday March 12, 2008