Sunak confirms delay on petrol and diesel vehicle ban
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confirmed a watering down of EV and climate pledges yesterday, pushing the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles back to 2035.
In his announcement, Sunak said he was bringing Britain’s policies in line with the likes of Germany, France and parts of the US.
Sunak said: “I’m announcing today that we’re going to ease the transition to electric vehicles. You’ll still be able to buy petrol and diesel cars and vans until 2035. Even after that, you’ll still be able to buy and sell them second-hand.
“We’re aligning our approach with countries like Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Australia, Canada, Sweden, and US states such as California, New York and Massachusetts and still ahead of the rest of America and other countries like New Zealand.”
Despite the U-turn, Sunak insisted the UK remains on course to reach Net Zero by 2050: “This country is proud to be a world leader in reaching Net Zero by 2050. There will be resistance, and we will meet it. Because I am determined to change our country and build a better future for our children. Nothing less is acceptable.”
