Buildings should be subject to emissions taxes like cars to help Britain meet its climate change obligations, an MP has said.
Labour former shadow energy minister Jonathan Reynolds suggested taxing energy efficient buildings less to mirror the system in which people pay less if they buy a car with low emissions.
Energy Secretary Amber Rudd said buildings are “incredibly important” in meeting international green targets and that she is working with ministers to see what action they can take.
During energy questions in the Commons, Mr Reynolds said: “One thing we have to do in the UK to meet our obligations under that international deal is further reduce our emissions from buildings.
“When people buy a more efficient car, they will pay less taxation than if they bought a less efficient model. Shouldn’t the same apply to the taxation of buildings?”
Ms Rudd replied: “I agree with you that addressing buildings is an incredibly important part of trying to meet our renewable energy targets which we have set for 2020 through the EU, and I am working closely with the Department for Communities and Local Government to see what action we can take to address that.
“But buildings is an important part of the mix.”
