A bill to ban single-use plastic bags has passed the state’s upper house after two MPs failed to show up.

The bill, introduced by Labor, was passed 18 votes to 16 after two Shooters, Fishers and Farmers parliamentarians didn’t turn up.

The legislation will return to the lower house in two weeks.

Deputy Opposition Leader in the NSW upper house Penny Sharpe tells Steve Price the government is opposed to the move.

“It is beyond a joke.

“Banning single-use plastic bags has happened in every other state and territory.”

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