Greens: UK must follow Europe in windfall tax
The UK must follow the European Union in applying a windfall tax to the record profits of energy firms, according to the Scottish Greens.
This follows the European Union agreeing to apply a levy on fossil fuel firms' surplus profits and a levy on excess revenues made from surging electricity costs.
The Scottish Greens energy and environment spokesperson, Mark Ruskell MSP said:
“The climate denying UK government is looking more isolated every day.
“We are seeing record temperatures and extreme weather events all around the world, but Liz Truss and her energy Minister, Jacob Rees-Mogg, are pushing for more oil and gas drilling and planning to bring back fracking.
“The case for a windfall tax is getting stronger every day. It is great that European Union countries are taking the lead on this and are introducing a levy. It is time for the UK to match their commitments.
“These companies are making obscene profits while families across the country are being forced to choose between freezing and starving.
“A meaningful windfall tax could deliver real relief for people here and now, while supporting a major investment in renewable energy and allowing us to finally break the link between fossil fuel prices and household bills.
“It is time for the UK government to finally step-up and take the climate action that is needed to reduce bills and accelerate our pathway towards a just transition away from fossil fuels.”