Plastic straws could be banned in Britain, the environment secretary has said.

The UK is estimated to go through 8.5 billion single-use plastic straws every year - the highest number in Europe - and Michael Gove said banning their use could help the UK become more environmentally friendly.

Because they cannot be recycled the straws often end up in waterways and in the sea, causing damage and death to plants and animals.

A distressing video of a sea turtle with a plastic straw stuck in its nostril recently prompted calls for them to be banned around the world, and a number of MPs have called for an end to their use in bars and restaurants.

Asked whether he might ban plastic straws after Britain has left the EU next year, Mr Gove said: “Watch this space.”

He added: “If it is bad, then banning it is a good thing" but he also said there has to be a balanced approach.