Overview

This bill aims to ban the manufacture and sale of wet wipes containing plastic in England. The Secretary of State is mandated to draft and present regulations to Parliament within 90 days of the bill's passing, creating offenses for non-compliance.

Description

The Plastics (Wet Wipes) Bill proposes a complete prohibition on the manufacture and sale of wet wipes containing plastic in England. The Secretary of State will utilize existing legislative powers under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and the Regulatory Enforcement and Sanctions Act 2008 to achieve this. These powers allow the prohibition or restriction of substances or articles deemed harmful to the environment or health. The bill mandates that draft regulations establishing offenses related to the plastic wet wipe ban be presented to Parliament within 90 days of the bill becoming law. The bill only applies to England and Wales.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify direct government spending figures. However, costs are expected to arise from the drafting and implementation of regulations, enforcement activities, and potential support for businesses adapting to the ban. Specific financial details would be provided in future budget allocations.

Groups Affected

• Manufacturers of wet wipes: Will need to reformulate products or cease production, potentially leading to job losses or restructuring.
• Retailers: Will have to remove plastic wet wipes from their shelves.
• Consumers: Will need to switch to plastic-free alternatives.
• Environmental agencies: Will be responsible for enforcing the ban.

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