Some companies have vowed to phase the plastic particles out of their products by 2020

The use of microbeads is to be banned in cosmetics and personal care products by the end of next year, Environment Secretary Andrea Leadsom has announced.

MPs had called for action against the tiny beads, which are flushed into the ocean and damage marine life. The United States has decided to put a similar ban in place. However, environmental campaigners said that ministers should consider a much wider ban as some beads can end up in the human food chain. The effects on health are unclear, but MPs were told that a plate of six oysters could contain up to 50.

A consultation process will be launched on banning the plastics from cosmetics and bathroom products in the UK, with legislation expected next year, and