GUE/NGL MEPs today voted against the rejection of an agreement between Parliament, the Council and Commission aiming to reduce the consumption of lightweight plastic carrier bags in the EU.

This call for rejection was tabled by a member of the EFDD group, despite the fact that the agreement is fully backed by all Parliament's political groups.

Eleonora Forenza, GUE/NGL shadow on the file, said: “We achieved a lot in this agreement on lightweight carrier bags: mandatory targets by member states, action on pricing and a ban on sale. This agreement should ensure 50% less consumption of plastic bags over three years and a 100% reduction over five years.”

She continued: “The obligation for member states to monitor the state of application of the legislation on the basis of a common methodology is also positive. However, this monitoring should include environmental NGOs. We have seen how campaigners are vital to achieving a better Europe.”