Story perspectives

Biffa Sues Scottish Government for £166M Over Bottle Scheme Delay

10/22/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Biffa Waste Services sues the Scottish government for £166 million over the delayed bottle return scheme.
Chief executive Michael Topham testified that a May 2022 letter from Lorna Slater, then Scottish minister, provided certainty the scheme would proceed.
UK government required a UK-wide approach excluding glass, delaying the scheme.
Topham said he was surprised not to be told of internal market rule disputes, and the eight-day hearing is expected.

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Story summary

Biffa Waste Services sues the Scottish government for £166 million over the delayed bottle return scheme.
Chief executive Michael Topham testified that a May 2022 letter from Lorna Slater, then Scottish minister, provided certainty the scheme would proceed.
UK government required a UK-wide approach excluding glass, delaying the scheme.
Topham said he was surprised not to be told of internal market rule disputes, and the eight-day hearing is expected.