SHOPPERS in Wales will be charged for plastic bags, but not until 2011 it was announced yesterday.

Environment Minister Jane Davidson told the Welsh Assembly that a charge on single-use carrier bags would come into force by early 2011, before the next election.

The Labour AM said: "I have long said that carrier bags represent a waste of resources and they are an iconic symbol of the throwaway society we now seem to live in.

"I am now working towards achieving implementation of a mandatory charge on single-use carrier bags before our next election in 2011.’’ Ms Davidson's announcement was backed by shadow environment minister Angela Burns.

The Conservative AM said: "Measures such as this are important in changing consumer behaviour, reducing litter and improving the environment.

"As an Assembly group, we have consistently called for this levy. I would encourage ministers to consider introducing this at 5p per bag.

"The example in Ireland is that at such a level there was an 80% reduction in the use of plastic carrier bags.

"While I welcome the proposal allowing businesses to use money raised through the levy to support local environmental projects, Welsh Conservatives have said we want to see some of those funds spent on schemes to promote walking and cycling - improving the nation's health and the environment at the same time.’’ The British Retail Consortium has warned against the move, saying shops have already made progress without the need for legislation.

The watchdog Consumer Focus Wales said shoppers will need to see where the money raised by a statutory charge is being spent.