CBI chief blasts Government’s ‘green’ policies

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has hit out against the UK Government’s approach to energy efficiency and renewable technology.

Speaking alongside the former Vice President of the United States, Al Gore, and the chief executive of Christian Aid, Loretta Minghella at an event organised by the environmental think tank, Green Alliance, CBI director-general John Cridland argued that certainty and clarity of direction are critical to developing long-term business investment in a low-carbon future.

In his speech, he praised the steps that had been taken so far in the UK, but also warned that recent changes risk destabilising industry. Cridland said that the UK has “built up real credibility on climate leadership and low carbon investment,” but the roll-back of renewables and mixed messages on energy efficiency meant that the Government “risks sending a worrying signal to businesses.”

“We need all countries to pull in the same direction at the Paris Summit [in November] to give firms the certainty and confidence they need to invest in the green economy for the long run. Politicians and negotiators should be confident that business is behind them in securing a lasting climate deal,” he concluded.