Controversial Proposals Spark Fears of Punitive Green Policies
An adviser to Ed Miliband, the former leader of the Labour Party, has called for new taxes on Brits who travel abroad for their holidays. Eleanor Salter, who advises Labour's climate change chief, also wants to ban all domestic flights within the UK. Her comments have raised concerns that Labour would impose strict green policies if they were to come into power.
Crackdown on Foreign Holidays and Phasing Out of Domestic Flights
Speaking during a Zoom discussion about a Green New Deal in December 2020, Salter suggested bringing the aviation sector back into public hands instead of providing bailouts to shareholders. She proposed scaling down travel through mechanisms like a frequent flyer levy and completely phasing out domestic flights. These measures, according to Salter, would significantly reduce emissions and support workers through a just transition.
Managed Decline of Carbon-Intensive Sectors
In addition to her proposals on travel, Salter also called for the managed decline of industries that heavily rely on fossil fuels. While this approach may reduce carbon emissions, critics argue that it would lead to job losses.
Tory Party Criticizes Labour's Approach
A senior Tory source criticized Labour's stance, accusing them of wanting to dictate how people live their lives and relying on bans and taxes as their solutions. The source suggested that Labour would likely attempt to impose both measures in this case.
Labour Party Faces Fresh Criticism
Salter's comments have ignited a fresh row within the Labour Party regarding their green policies. Party leader Sir Keir Starmer's commitment to spending £28 billion per year on eco plans has faced heavy scrutiny. While Starmer has tried to downplay the pledge, emphasizing the importance of fiscal rules, he has not yet abandoned it entirely.
Labour's Response
A spokesperson for Labour stated that the party supports investing in British industries to make the UK a clean energy superpower. They clarified that while Labour is in favor of investing in carbon-intensive industries to protect jobs, they do not support frequent flyer taxes or ending flights altogether.
