Starmer issued main warning over EU net-zero give up – ‘blank cheque to Brussels’ | Politics | News | EUROtoday

Labour MPs have urged Sir Keir Starmer to stall vitality negotiations with the European Union. The Government is presently in talks about rejoining the EU’s Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) carbon market because the Prime Minister continues to hunt nearer ties with the bloc as a part of his “Brexit reset”.

MPs have warned Sir Keir to not hand Brussels a “black cheque” over net-zero guidelines, in keeping with experiences. In a letter to Downing, they mentioned this threatens to “undermine” British enterprise. They additionally warned UK companies may very well be positioned at a “significant disadvantage” if compelled to cowl additional prices on items offered abroad — one thing opponents from overseas will not be required to do.

Labour MP Henry Tufnell, chair of the Commission for Carbon Competitiveness, was one of many letter’s signatories.

While welcoming nearer relations with the EU, he mentioned, in keeping with The Telegraph, that the UK “cannot lock ourselves into paths that do not match our industrial realities or decarbonisation timetables, and over which we have no say”.

He mentioned the Government should “prioritise and protect” British companies, whereas placing a “linkage agreement” with Brussels.

“Getting the substance right is essential for both sides, and mustn’t be sacrificed for the sake of finalising a ‘reset’ deal before the next UK-EU summit in May,” he added.

The letter was signed by main members of the Commission for Carbon Competitiveness.

It known as on the PM to delay negotiations till the impression on British companies is obvious, The Telegraph reported.

The UK left the ETS scheme in late 2020 following Brexit and has since arrange its personal comparable scheme designed to encourage companies to pollute much less.

Rejoining would reportedly see the UK carbon worth rise, making it much more expensive for companies to pollute.

It is hoped this is able to push firms to look to slash emissions extra quickly and in flip, assist hit net-zero targets.

However, there are warnings this might trigger worth hikes for customers.

In response, a Government spokesperson instructed The Telegraph: “We are delivering on our commitment to secure a carbon linking agreement with the EU as soon as possible, which will exempt British businesses from EU charges on £7 billion worth of exports. We won’t comment on ongoing negotiations.”