Shadow Minister for Environment, Russell George AM, has claimed many businesses remain completely in the dark over the bag charge – days before its introduction.
Shortly before the new regulations come into effect, Mr George has cast further doubt over the amount of information retailers have received from the government.
During questioning in the Assembly chamber, the Environment Minister claimed 40,000 information packs had been sent to businesses across Wales.
Mr George said: “The Minister says he’s confident all relevant businesses have been contacted. I can categorically say his confidence is wholly misplaced.
“The simple fact of the matter is that there are retailers throughout my constituency which have received absolutely no information from the government. Despite being affected by the charge, they still have no official guidance. They’re completely in the dark and that’s unacceptable.
“If 40,000 information packs have been sent out, I think we need to question how they’ve been targeted and whether that’s been an efficient distribution.
“The introduction of the charge was delayed from April to October, so businesses could fully get to grips with the regulations, yet the awareness campaign started in mid-August.
“There’s a real possibility that this very important change is going to flop at the first hurdle – all because of the Welsh Labour Government’s inefficiency and disorganisation.”
