PM car industry plan: Not enough to protect from Trump's trade war

EMBARGO: 22:30 SUNDAY 6 APRIL

Responding to the Prime Minister's plan to support carmakers, Liberal Democrat Transport Spokesperson Paul Kohler said:

"The government is right to take urgent steps to support the car industry and the switch to electric vehicles, but this on its own won't be enough to protect the sector from the impact of Trump's damaging tariffs.

"Ministers should also be exploring better incentives for consumers to buy electric vehicles including VAT cuts for public charging and postponing the planned increase in vehicle tax on electric cars.

"Crucially the Prime Minister should be working with our allies in Europe and around the world on a coordinated response to Trump’s trade, including possible retaliatory tariffs where necessary.

“There is also an urgent need to cut red tape for car exports to Europe through a new UK-EU customs union.”

ENDS