‘Cluttered climate policies are failing us’, say businesses

Businesses believe the Government’s “cluttered” climate policies are “failing” them, a British manufacturing trade body warned over the weekend. The EEF which supports more than 6,000 manufacturers and engineers in […]

Businesses believe the Government’s “cluttered” climate policies are “failing” them, a British manufacturing trade body warned over the weekend.

The EEF which supports more than 6,000 manufacturers and engineers in the UK, is calling for an urgent full scale review of the government’s climate and environment policies ahead of the next Spending Review.

The complaint comes as seven out of ten SMEs (72%) say the cost of falling in line with climate policies is going up, according to the EEF’s 2012 Climate & Environment survey, with the same proportion (74%) saying they have to spend more time on complying with legislation.

Terry Scuoler, EEF Chief Executive said: “Britain faces a major challenge to de-carbonise our economy and strengthen economic growth. Despite some progress, the simple truth is the government’s own policies are failing to match industry’s own ambitions with a confused and cluttered landscape adding to the cost burdens rather than driving investment.”

DECC defended its policies, pointing to the £250m package of support for major energy users announced by the Chancellor last year. A statement said: “We recognise the need to ensure that our energy intensive industries remain competitive and that we send a clear message that the UK is open for business.”

Mr Scuoler also claimed a new ‘stress test’ for legislation could make rules much simpler to follow, adding he believes more industry sectors should have to fall in line with climate change rules.

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