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<p>Although the Secretary of State is in regular communication with supermarket retailers,
Defra has had no specific conversations with representatives of supermarkets on supporting
community organisations to reduce littering.</p><p> </p><p>The Government continues
to use its influence to support national clear-up days, which help to empower and
engage communities in tackling litter and to change attitudes towards littering. We
have also recently updated the Countryside Code, reminding people to respect the outdoors
and take their litter home with them.</p><p> </p><p>I recently spoke at the launch
of the 2021 Great British Spring Clean, urging as many people and businesses as possible
to participate, and have committed to volunteer during the event. By taking part,
we can all set the tone for the summer ahead, by showing that litter is not acceptable,
and that people care deeply about protecting their local environment.</p><p> </p><p>Many
retailers choose to support these events, and local stores often encourage staff and
customers to take part. We understand that in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic some
retailers are, quite reasonably, focusing much of their charitable efforts on the
food redistribution and supply sector at present.</p>
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