SIR, From October 20, small businesses in the Borders will have to charge at least five pence for 'single-use’ bags they give to customers – no matter if the bag is made from paper, plastic or any other material.
Anecdote suggests that some businesses that sell hot food (e.g. chip shops or takeaways) and high street shops (e.g. fashion retailers or hardware stores) aren’t as prepared as they should be for the change.
Until recently, all eyes have been on Scotland’s constitutional future and the Federation of Small Businesses are urging those in charge of enforcing the new laws to show some leniency to time-pressed small enterprises.
However, local business owners should get themselves prepared by visiting: http://carrierbagchargescotland.org.uk/ I am, etc.
Gordon Henderson Federation of Small Businesses Edinburgh
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