This morning, the Right Honourable Sir Fresh3001 KNZM discussed the National Party’s proposed plastic bag charge at the Mount Maunganui New World. Shoppers and supporters talked to the ex-Prime Minister and East Cape MP about this innovative solution to reduce the environmental pollution caused by plastic bags.

“This election, National has a policy that I’m very happy to present to you all here today. Now, I’m sure you’re all aware of the many proposals for a ban on single-use plastic bags; despite the fact that it’s an issue heavily championed by the left I’m actually very sympathetic to their motives. Single-use plastic bags cause substantial damage to New Zealand’s natural environment, and indeed often end up polluting our oceans and rivers. It’s clear that something has to be done, but I reject the solution proposed by the left.”

“What do you want to do then?” a shopper called out.

“I’m glad you asked. The case study here is the United Kingdom, which in 2015 placed a 5 pence charge on the sale of all plastic bags in supermarkets. Anybody want to guess how much plastic bag usage dropped since then?”

A number of shoppers yelled out their guesses, most underestimating its effect.

“87%. Plastic bag usage in the United Kingdom has dropped by nearly 90% since the imposition of this charge, just on supermarkets. It’s clear that this policy works, and it works damn well. It’s also not a knee-jerk reaction which criminalises the sale of plastic bags, as I’m sure the left are keen to implement. National would implement a 50c charge on the sale of all plastic bags at supermarkets, and would extend that charge further following a trial period. Not only will this discourage plastic bag usage, and raise revenue to be spent on protecting our environment, but it allows for consumers to pay for the externalities of the goods they use. There are many uses for plastic bags besides carrying your shopping, I know I’ve got a stash at home. This way, people are aware of the cost of single use bags to the environment, but can still pay the appropriate price for them if they need them.”