MORE than 38,000 people have now signed a petition calling for McDonald's to scrap paper straws and bring back plastic ones instead.

The man behind the petition, Martin Reid, added it was important so he 'could drink his milkshake proper'.

The petition has gained thousands of signatures in less than a week.

Many others have taken to social media to complain the paper straws were 'dissolving' in their drinks.

McDonald's confirmed a paper straw roll-out in June 2018 following 'successful trials and positive customer feedback'.

Speaking at the time, a spokesman said: “Reflecting the broader public debate, our customers told us they wanted to see a move on straws but to do so without compromising their overall experience when visiting our restaurants.

"Over the past few months we’ve been working closely with supplier partners to find a solution that works both for our customers, and that the supply is there given the size of our business."

But while many have taken to Twitter to complain about the move, others have defended the decision.

A petition on the same website calling for a ban on plastic straws in cinemas now has more than 215,000 signatures.

McDonald's has said their suppliers have made paper straws that last 'at least 30 minutes in most, if not all liquids'.

In response to complaints on Twitter, McDonald's also added: "We completely understand your concerns and can reassure you that whilst paper straws will be introduced to all restaurants, we’ll be working on retaining an alternative option for those that require one."