It is pleasing to see the Government has adopted yet another proposal I introduced previously.  In 2003 I proposed legislation that would discourage and, ultimately, phase out the use of plastic shopping bags. The Government’s Bill will ban the distribution of plastic bags at supermarkets, rather than impose a levy on their use.  I raised the concern in Parliament that a levy would still leave the consumer with a choice, even at a cost. I supported the legislation on the basis that, following a period of adjustment, it will benefit the environment.