MPs slam ministers for dismissing calls for latte levy on coffee cups

MPs have accused ministers of dismissing expert advice to introduce a levy on takeaway coffee cups similar to the 5p charge on plastic bags.



The Environmental Audit Committee said the Government offered “warm words” on tackling waste but was planning “no real action”.

But ministers said it was "wrong" to suggest the Government was not taking "decisive action".

The MPs urged the Government to tack an extra 25p onto disposable coffee cups after evidence to the committee found charging customers would be more effective than voluntary schemes.

But ministers have instead simply encouraged shops to offer a discount to those who bring their own cups.

The committee also condemned ministers for failing to enforce clear labelling about where cups can be recycled.

And ministers rejected the call to impose an outright ban by 2023 on disposable coffee cups which cannot be recycled.

EAC chair Mary Creagh said: "Evidence to our inquiry demonstrated that charges work better than discounts for reducing the use of non-recyclable materials – as was the case with the plastic bag charge.

“By choosing to favour voluntary discounts for reusable cups, the Government is ignoring the evidence about what works.”

On recycling, she added: “Consumers deserve to know if their coffee cup will be recycled or not.

“The Government’s response to my Committee’s recommendation not only lacks ambition, and puts coffee in the 'too difficult' ministerial in-tray.”

A Government spokesperson said: “Industry has a crucial role to play in making more products recyclable and we are working with them to reform our packaging waste regulations so producers are incentivised to take greater responsibility for the environmental impact of their products.

“But it is wrong to say government is not taking decisive action - we have set out our commitment to the environment in our 25 year plan, published in January, and we are looking at further ways to reduce avoidable waste and recycle more as part of our resources and waste strategy."