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Government to ban plastic straws, cotton buds and stirrers

Environment secretary Michael Gove has announced plans to ban the sale and distribution of plastic straws, cotton buds and drinks stirrers.

Although non-plastic alternatives are readily available, it is estimated that in England we use 4.7 billion plastic straws, 316 million stirrers and 1.8 million plastic-stemmed cotton buds every year. Ten per cent of cotton buds are flushed down toilets and can end up in waterways and oceans.

Exemptions to the ban will apply for those who need to use plastic straws for medical reasons. Subject to a consultation, the ban is expected to come into force between October 2019 and October 2020.

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.