Antrim Alliance Councillor Alan Lawther has welcomed proposals from the London-based think tank ‘Green Alliance’ to introduce a plastic bag tax and other energy-saving devices.
Cllr Lawther, a long-standing campaigner on the issue, stated: “Soon after election I called for a small plastic bag tax to be introduced, a motion subsequently passed by other Councils. That system works perfectly well in the Republic, and I would like to see it introduced right across the UK.
“I also note calls for promotion of other energy-saving devices, such as solar panels and energy-saving light bulbs. I know campaigners on these issues will be present at the Alliance Party conference, and I and my party look forward to working through these issues with them.
“It is quite possible to be Liberal and environmentally-friendly at the same time. We are not calling for harsh penalties or outlandish stealth taxes, but rather small charges to encourage people to ensure they protect the environment around them. The simple fact is we do not need plastic bags for a single newspapers or a couple of chocolate bars. If there is a system in use elsewhere that works, it is senseless not to adopt it.
“Besides, as an Alliance Party representative with a strong record on green issues, I am bound to say that there cannot be much wrong with proposals from any organization called ‘Green Alliance’!”