Deposit Return Scheme delayed until March 2024

The DRS was due to come into force in August despite concerns from businesses, but will now be pushed back

Published 18th Apr 2023
Last updated 18th Apr 2023

The controversial deposit return scheme will be delayed to March next year, the First Minister has confirmed as he looks to "re-set" the government's relationship with business.

The scheme was due to come into force in August despite concerns from businesses, but will now be pushed back.

Mr Yousaf has also confirmed proposals to restrict alcohol advertising will be sent "back to the drawing board."

The First Minister made the announcement as he set out his priorities over the next three years to the Scottish Parliament.

He said: "I remain committed to this Scheme as a way to increase recycling, reduce litter and help achieve our net zero ambitions.

"But we recognise the uncertainty that continues to be created as a result of the UK Government delaying the decision to exclude the scheme from the Internal Market Act.

"We had hoped for that decision this week - but it has not come.

"At the same time, I - and the Circular Economy Minister - have heard the concerns of business, particularly about the scheme's readiness for launch this August. As a result, we will now delay the launch of the scheme to the 1st of March 2024.

"This provides 10 months for businesses to get ready.

"We will use that additional time to work with businesses, and Circularity Scotland, to address concerns with the scheme and ensure a successful launch next year."

A package of measures, Mr Yousaf said, would also be put in place to "simplify and de-risk" the scheme.

Mr Yousaf also outlined a re-think regarding the alcohol advertising bans.

A consultation on the plans had been launched, with the possibility of alcohol being obscured in shops, raising concerns about the cost of shop re-fits among retailers.

"The aim of this consultation - to reduce the harm caused by alcohol to children - is admirable. I support it wholeheartedly," the First Minister told MSPs on Tuesday.

"But it is clear that some of the proposals have caused real concern to an industry which is already facing challenges on multiple fronts.

"I have therefore instructed my officials to take these ideas back to the drawing board, and to work with the industry, and with public health stakeholders, to agree a new set of proposals.

"I believe that all of us want to reduce the harm caused by alcohol, particularly to young people but without undermining Scotland's world class drinks industry or tourism sector.

"I am hopeful that by taking a fresh look at this issue, we can find a way forward which achieves both of those aims."

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