Business community must not pick up tab for UK’s energy
31/10/2006
The Chamber, which represents businesses in Bedfordshire and Luton, says businesses should not pick up the tab for the UK’s energy inefficiency. The Chamber was responding to the Stern Review, carried out by Sir Nicholas Stern, former Chief Executive of the World Bank. Sir Nicholas warns that global warming could shrink the world economy by 20% and urges the government to promote cleaner energy and transport technology.
Commenting on the Stern Review, Cheryl Smart, Director of Corporate Affairs at the Chamber said:
"With over 60 million people living in the UK businesses must not be singled out as the ones to pay higher taxes to tackle climate change.
Businesses are showing increased willingness to become more energy efficient and the government should continue to work with us rather than simply raise taxes; if green taxes are to be raised then it is crucial that they are offset by reductions elsewhere. It would be counter productive for UK businesses to be hindered on the world stage by an uncompetitive tax regime."
Added Cheryl
"Organisations such as the Carbon Trust need to refocus their efforts so that it is made easier for small and medium sized businesses to become more energy efficient. By working together business and the government can really make a difference and help the UK become global leaders in tackling climate change."
