Plastic straws and cotton buds could be banned within a year

Michael Gove unveils consultation on move to cut pollution and protect oceansPlastic straws, drink stirrers and cotton buds will be banned by October 2020 at the latest under government plans to cut pollution, Michael Gove is to announce.Launching a consultation on the proposals on Monday, the environment secretary will cite the success of the 5p charge on single-use plastic bags, which led to an 86% drop in their use at major supermarkets. Continue reading...