Will this be a Budget for the Environment?
One of the politcial messages that we've heard in response
to the global recession is that we need to build a low carbon
economy. The G20 Leaders communique
included a promise to build an inclusive, green, and sustainable
recovery.
It's now clear that this year's Budget stunt revolves around
electric cars. The Government plans to make £250 million
available over 5 years to support electric motoring. Part of the
money will be spent on installing electric recharging points in the
street and there will also be a subsidy of up to £5,000
towards the purchase cost of an electric car. Building some
infrastructure is needed - but it will be several years before
electric cars are more readily available. Even then, it's
expected that they will cost substantially more than petrol/diesel
cars. The subsidy won't plug the gap.
