The government is developing a plan to cut the amount of plastic it uses.

The Chief Minister announced the move in the House of Keys last week.

Howard Quayle was responding to a question from fellow Middle MHK Bill Shimmins, who asked him what action government departments, boards and offices were taking to reduce their consumption of single use plastic; and what targets have been set in this regard.

Mr Quayle said: ’Single-use plastic should be acknowledged to be an unsustainable use of resources and if not disposed of responsibly, these products can seriously affect our marine life and the wider environment.

’I am aware that currently there is a rather inconsistent approach to the reduction of plastic across government. ’There are currently no targets at the present time.

’It is the job of this House and this government to provide leadership in this area.

’That is why I am announcing today that I have asked the environment and infrastructure committee of the Council of Ministers to develop a plan that will see us aim to significantly reduce the amount of single use plastic we use over the course of this administration.

’I want them to report back to the Council of Ministers no later than May this year and to publish our plans to help ensure our island and its seas remain a special place to live and work.’