The Scottish conservatives spoke against the motion, under concerns that implementing the DRS too soon could add a burden to already struggling businesses due to the economic and other impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.

However, Scotland’s minster for rural affairs and natural environment Mairi Gougeon, spoke in favour of implementing the DRS in 2022

The implementation of the scheme was already pushed back to 2022 in March, after initially being planned for April 2021, to allow businesses ‘more time’ to prepare in light of the pandemic.

Ms Gougeon, who is also SNP member Angus North and Mearns, said that Scottish businesses would continue to be “monitored closely to see if further flexibility is required” to the implementation date.

The minister added that July 2022 was the “earliest date” parliament was confident they could deliver a successful deposit return scheme.

Timing

Talking against the motion, Annie Mills of the Scottish Conservatives said: “There is no disputing that the DRS can increase recycling rates and protect our environment. The question is timing. We support delayed implementation to July 2022 in light of the virus outbreak. However Conservative don’t think it goes far enough.

“Small businesses are struggling more than ever. Many of them won’t see 2021 despite vast financial support provided by government. The business community will be responsible for making DRS work. Now is not the time to force them to scrutinise and engage with legislation adding to their burden.”

Ms Gougeon reiterated that the DRS is a “great opportunity” to create a more circular economy while reducing litter and contributing positively to the climate emergency”.

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