London Local Authorities (Shopping Bags) Bill 2007-08

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On 25 November 2008 the parliamentary agents requested on behalf of the promoter that the bill be withdrawn. 

The second reading of the Bill has been repeatedly opposed. A blocking motion has been tabled which, while it remains in place, will effectively prevent the bill receiving a second reading until a debate is held. The table above shows the progress of the Bill and the next date the motion will be taken formally, to be rescheduled for a later date until a debate is held. No date for a debate has yet been agreed. 

Petition information

If you are "specially and directly affected" by this bill (or the Additional Provision) you may oppose the bill or seek its amendment before a Select Committee in either or both Houses.  If you present a "petition" against the bill at the appropriate times you may be able to have your views on the bill heard by the Committee (in whichever House you petition).There are specific times when petitions can be presented.

• The petitioning period to petition against the Bill in the House of Commons ended on 30 January 2008.
• There will be a further opportunity to petition against the Bill if it reaches the House of Lords.  For further information please contact the House of Lords Private Bill Office.
• It is still possible to petition against the Additional Provision in the Commons. You should contact the House of Commons Private Bill Office as soon as possible.

 The Bill is opposed, 7 petitions were presented against the Bill in the House of Commons.

Summary of the Bill

The Bill introduces a prohibition on the distribution of free, throw-away shopping bags by retailers in the capital, and gives powers to local authorities to enforce this. Some exemptions apply:

• small bags used to contain any unpackaged food for human or animal consumption
• bags used for packaging any goods and sealed before the goods are offered for retail sale or supply
• bags sold for use by the customer away from the premises at which they are sold
• bags provided to the customer for the transmission of goods to the retailer
• bags designed to be used for the disposal of waste
• bags used to contain goods sold on board a ship, aircraft, train or bus used for carrying passengers.

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