A spokesperson for the company said: ‘Biffa was selected by Circularity Scotland Limited as the logistics partner for the delivery of the Scottish deposit return scheme and invested significant sums to support its timely and successful implementation.

‘This was done in good faith and on the expectation and understanding that the delivery of the scheme had been mandated by the Scottish Government.’

They added: ‘Having carefully reviewed our position with our advisors, we can confirm that we are taking legal action to seek appropriate compensation for the losses Biffa has incurred.’

Scotland’s DRS was scrapped after the UK Government declined a request for full exclusion from the Internal Market Act, which meant Scotland could not include glass in the scheme.

Biffa reportedly invested over £65m in preparation for DRS and is suing the Scottish Government for £55m, according to The Times.

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: ‘The Scottish Government cannot comment on ongoing litigation.’

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