Carrier Bag Smugglers ‘Devastated’ As 5p Charge Comes To England

An international smuggling operation is set to end at midnight as the 5p carrier bag charge comes into law in England.

Back in 2011 Wales started charging 5 pence per carrier bag which resulted in a 71% drop in usage, but triggered those who venture across the border into England to often bring in illicit supplies.

One person, who did not want to be named, told Wrexham.com: “Shopping in Broughton and Chester was a joy, as I could package every item in a separate bag and then bring them down the bypass. On a single run I could make around 85p profit, but thats all gone now, it is devastating to my scheme.”

Depending on which figures are to be believed around £20m has been raised so far by the Welsh 5p charge, with the majority of shoppers in favour of the system.

England are not only four years late to modernise, but will be limiting the system to larger chains and stores with more exemptions than Wales.

The changes are due in from Monday 5th of October and will see rumoured late night mid-bridge bag smuggling meet ups between Holt and Farndon cease.

Pic: Holt/Farndon bridge with River Dee.