Commenting on the Deposit Return Scheme update delivered by Minister Lorna Slater MSP in the Scottish Parliament today, Dr. Liz Cameron CBE, Chief Executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said:

“The Ministerial Statement on the Deposit Return Scheme has completely ignored concerns from Scottish firms. Our call was to pause the scheme and redesign it with the business community and that call has been rejected by the Minister.

“It’s been clear to the business community for some time that operating this poorly designed scheme in its current form is impossible and is adding unnecessary cost pressures on businesses.

“We are not alone in voicing our concerns. All three candidates for the Scottish National Party leadership have expressed their reservations too. It is abundantly clear to all involved that the roll-out of the scheme has to be paused immediately and then reviewed in partnership with the business community.

“The scheme must be made cost-effective for firms and better aligned with DRS plans in the rest of the UK.”

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