What steps will the Welsh Government take to address concerns raised by some small producers and manufacturers about the costs that such businesses may incur as a result of the introduction of a deposit-return scheme in Wales?
Following our joint consultation with the UK Government and Northern Ireland Executive in 2021, we have been working collaboratively to analyse the responses received and to finalise the design of the Deposit Return Scheme.
In Wales, in line with proposals outlined within the consultation, it is the intention to include glass drinks containers within the scheme. With regards to small and micro-size producers, we have sought views in our consultation on any mitigations which should be put in place to minimise the burden on these businesses.
The next step will be to publish a summary of the responses along with the design of the scheme jointly with the UK Government and Northern Ireland Executive, which we aim to bring forward shortly after the Local Authority elections.