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Ministers have been slammed for resisting calls to introduce a ‘latte levy’ on takeaway coffee cups.

A committee of MPs urged the government to introduce a mandatory 25p charge on disposable cups, which are difficult and costly to recycle.

But they say the government’s response to their proposals amounts to a “refusal” to take decisive action on the issue - instead relying on voluntary commitments by high street coffee chains.

As well as calling for a so-called ‘latte levy’, Parliament’s Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) recommended all paper drinks cups should be recycled by 2023 - and if not, they should be banned.

Disposable cups used by big coffee chains like Starbucks and Costa are difficult to recycle because of the cups’ tightly bonded plastic lining.

(Image: Bloomberg)

Because only three recycling facilities in the UK can split out paper and plastic, less than 1% of coffee cups are recycled.

Although some coffee shops provide discounts for customers who bring their own cup, only 1-2% of purchases take advantage of the offer.

But while the Government admitted the 5p charge on plastic carrier bags had a “big impact” on waste, it failed to commit to either of the key recommendations in the report.

EAC Chair, Mary Creagh MP said: “The UK’s throwaway culture is having a devastating impact on our streets, beaches and seas.

(Image: E+)

"Our report recommended practical solutions to the disposable packaging crisis.

“The Government’s response shows that despite warm words they plan no real action.”

A Government spokesman 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.