The primary purpose of the proposed measure is to directly influence consumer behaviour and achieve a significant reduction in the consumption of plastic shopping bags dispensed at retail outlets, because of their significance as a highly visible component of litter. It will of course be open to customers to utilise re-useable bags or other containers for shopping purposes, and thereby avoid exposure to the proposed levy. In this regard, I have highlighted the desirability of utilising reusable shopping bags as part of a specific initiative on environmentally friendly shopping, under the ongoing national environmental awareness campaign.