You could start having to pay 5p for a carrier bag in corner shops and smaller stores to fit in with a government environment plan.

Corner shops and other retailers with fewer than 250 employees are currently exempted from the charge in England that was introduced to tackle “throwaway culture”.

But Prime Minister Theresa May and environment secretary Michael Gove are this week due to set out plans for the levy to cover almost all plastic bags.

Mrs May said she wanted the government to take a stand against the "profligate" use of natural resources as she briefed her Cabinet about the plan.

Mr Gove showed he was ready to practise what he preached, by turning up for the meeting clutching a reusable coffee mug.

There will be a consultation on extending the plastic bag charge as part of the 25-year environment plan.

It is claimed the introduction of the 5p charge on single-use plastic bags has contributed to a reduction of nearly 90 per cent in their use.

The independent retailers' federation NFRN welcomed proposals to extend the plastic bag charge to smaller stores in England.

National president Linda Sood said: "Our members have always been baffled by the fact that they were excluded from the requirements in England, although their retail colleagues in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have been able to charge.

"Extending the levy is good news as it will bring an end to customer confusion while helping NFRN members cut costs, play their part in reducing waste and raising money for local worthy charities."

Let us know what you think. Is this a good thing?