Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s decision to extend the deadline for banning gas and petrol-powered cars to 2035 has sparked a debate, with various politicians and businesses sharing their opinions. Former MEP Nigel Farage praised the decision as a “much-needed outbreak of commonsense,” while Baroness Altmann, vice-chair of the Net Zero all-party parliamentary group, emphasized the importance of protecting the planet for future generations and providing businesses with certainty regarding future changes. Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson also called for certainty about net zero commitments for businesses.
In a letter to Mr. Sunak, the co-chairs of the New Conservative group of Tory MPs expressed their support for the decision, claiming it was a pragmatic balance between addressing climate change and economic circumstances. They argued that the original ban on petrol and diesel engines by 2030 would have disproportionately affected individuals in the North of England and the Midlands who rely on cars for their daily economic activities. They also raised practical concerns about EVs, such as grid strain, environmental impact, and the need for substantial public investment in charging infrastructure.
Howard Cox, founder of FairFuelUK, welcomed the decision but questioned why it took the government so long to make it. He warned that the new 2035 deadline may be short-lived if Labour comes into power. Harry Wilkinson from Net Zero Watch called the move “baby steps” and highlighted the potential harm and limitations of banning essential products like cars and gas boilers. Tory MP Craig Mackinlay praised the decision as sensible and pragmatic.
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) welcomed the certainty around legislation for the end of the sale of petrol and diesel cars, stating their plans are on track to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2039. Ford, however, expressed concerns about manufacturing capacity and job losses if the ban is delayed by five years. The EV campaign group FairCharge warned that shifting the deadline would risk billions in investment and thousands of jobs. Shadow chief secretary to the Treasury, Darren Jones, criticized the government’s handling of the announcement, calling for better communication with car companies and accusing Rishi Sunak of weak leadership.