UK (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander says that Labour’s electric vehicle policy changes will have a minimal impact on emissions, aiming to back the car industry.
As reported by The Guardian, the transport secretary said Labour’s adjustments to electric vehicle regulations in response to Donald Trump’s tariffs will result in a negligible emissions impact.
What did Heidi Alexander say about US tariffs on imports?
Ms Alexander, referring to the import taxes announced by the US president last week, which triggered responses from other countries, stated that they are
“bad news for the global economy, as they negatively impact global demand, prices, and consumers.”
During an interview, while talking about the government’s changes to EV rules, she stated,
“The changes we are making have been very carefully calibrated so as not to have a significant impact on the carbon emissions savings that are baked into this policy. In fact, the impact on carbon emissions as a result of these changes is negligible.”
Ms Alexander said the government had “struck the right balance” between protecting British businesses and reducing carbon emissions.
In response to questions about the 2030 target for phasing out petrol and diesel cars and whether it would limit free markets, she explained,
“It offers the car industry a chance to stay at the forefront of the EV transition, but we must be practical.”
The transport secretary added,
“It’s right that we are looking at how we can be flexible in the way in which car manufacturers make this transition, because we want cheaper EVs to be available for consumers. We want people to be able to benefit from those lower running costs as well.”
Ms Alexander stated,
“And so it’s important that, as a government, we do everything that we can – not only to support British businesses and manufacturing to grow the economy, but also to cut those carbon emissions, and I think we’ve struck the right balance in the package that we’re announcing today.”
Responding to a question regarding Keir Starmer’s potential to urge Trump to reconsider his stance, she said,
“Obviously, when the prime minister has discussions internationally with allies, he will be honest about what is in the best interests of the British people.”
Addressing backlash that the EV policy changes were minor and planned before the US tariff announcement, the transport secretary insisted,
“These are significant changes to the car industry. You are right to say we started the consultation on Christmas Eve and that we closed the consultation in the middle of February.”
Ms Alexander acknowledged that Britain had to review its electric vehicle plans in light of Trump’s tariffs, calling for “renewed urgency.”
What bold changes is Keir Starmer planning for EV rules?
Labour leader pledged ‘bold changes’ to event vehicle regulations, planning to ease the burden on car manufacturers affected by Donald Trump’s tariffs.
According to the prime minister, “global trade is being transformed” as the US president’s 25% tariff on car imports and 10% levy on other goods take effect.
Sir Keir stated,
“I am determined to back British brilliance. Now more than ever, UK businesses and working people need a government that steps up, not stands aside,”
adding,
“That means action, not words.”
What did Yael Selfin say about the impact of tariffs on the UK automotive sector?
Yael Selfin, chief economist from KPMG UK, stated, “Given the economic impact that tariffs would cause, there is a strong incentive to seek a negotiated settlement that diminishes the need for tariffs. The UK automotive manufacturing sector is particularly exposed given the complex supply chains of some producers.”