Seven fast food items in England will be banned from takeaways from October 1, Environment Secretary Thérèse Coffey has said.

A far-reaching plastic ban is set to hit takeaways and fast food outlets in England from the beginning of next month, the Government has already announced.

England's ban follows Scotland as the first UK country to implement a ban on single-use plastics, with legislation coming into force in June 2022.

The Government has put a ban on everyday items including single-use plastic cutlery or balloon sticks, polystyrene containers and cups, and single-use plastic plates, trays, and bowls.

The ban on these items will include online and over-the-counter sales and supply, items from new and existing stock, and all types of single-use plastic, including biodegradable, compostable and recycled.

It will also include items wholly or partly made from plastic, including coating or lining. If you break the law, inspectors can order your business to cover the cost of the investigation.

Complaints about a business breaking the law can be made to Trading Standards, the government says.

"Plastic is a scourge which blights our streets and beautiful countryside"

Environment Secretary Thérèse Coffey said: "We all know the absolutely devastating impacts that plastic can have on our environment and wildlife.

"We have listened to the public and these new single-use plastics bans will continue our vital work to protect the environment for future generations.

"I am proud of our efforts in this area: we have banned microbeads, restricted the use of straws, stirrers and cotton buds and our carrier bag charge has successfully cut sales by over 97% in the main supermarkets."

Environment Minister Rebecca Pow said: "Plastic is a scourge which blights our streets and beautiful countryside and I am determined that we shift away from a single-use culture.

"By introducing a ban later this year we are doubling down on our commitment to eliminate all avoidable plastic waste. We will also be pressing ahead with our ambitious plans for a deposit return scheme for drinks containers and consistent recycling collections in England."