COMMENT

Widespread scepticism has greeted UK Government plans to ban new petrol and diesel cars and vans from 2040 over its cost and the need for more urgent action to curb vehicle emissions.

The proposal came in response to a High Court deadline over how ministers would meet European Union limits on nitrogen dioxide pollution.

It is part of a package of measures to improve air quality in England, but the vehicle ban is also expected to cover Scotland, where air quality is devolved.

Motoring groups pointed to the potentially huge loss of tax revenue from engine bans, while environmental campaigners urged more action now.

There were also questions over whether electric and other zero-emission vehicles

“Thebanisa diversionary tactic and doesn’t deal with the public health emergency caused by illegally polluted air now.”

CLIENTEARTH