'Budget a bad deal for environment' - Watson

5.59.09pm GMT Wed 21st Mar 2007

South West Lib Dem Euro-MP Graham Watson has condemned today's budget as a weak deal for the environment. Commenting after Gordon Brown's announcement this afternoon Mr Watson said:

"The Chancellor simply isn't making the polluter pay. Carbon dioxide emissions are on the rise and today's changes in Vehicle Excise Duty are not enough to really make a difference. Environmental taxation should be simple but sadly this government has done little in the way of providing economic incentives. Even removing or reducing VAT on energy saving light bulbs would be a good start."

Mr Watson, who uses 100% renewable energy in his home and office, continued:

"This Budget is a missed opportunity for the government to have helped people save money and change their lifestyles at the same time. For example, the expense of fitting solar panels can be very off-putting, often costing in the region of £3000. Much more needs to be done and done now if we are to effect change. Climate change is one of the biggest challenges of our time."