27 May 2009 - EU enterprise and industry ministers, meeting at the Competitiveness Council in Brussels, today called for EU environment and climate legislation to be scaled back. Commenting on the outcome of the Council meeting, UK Green MEP Caroline Lucas said:

"The outcome of today’s council reflects a worrying trend in European industrial policy-making. Instead of using the current crisis as an opportunity to support adaptation of our industries to enable them to withstand the economic challenges of the future, the misguided approach to industrial policy peddled by some EU governments (notably Germany) risks condemning Europe to an outdated economic model - based on failed industries.

"We cannot let the same old tired arguments made by the polluting industries jeopardise the meagre progress that has been made by EU legislation in terms of protecting EU citizens, promoting public health, limiting environmental damage and tackling climate change. Every time the EU introduces new environmental legislation, industry retrundle out the same tune about the impact on jobs but history has revealed this scaremongering to be hollow."

Dr Lucas continued: "On the contrary, we have strong evidence and research to indicate that this legislation, notably the EU climate package, will help boost employment and stimulate industries to adapt for the new economic challenges Europe faces. The US and Asian economies and others have clearly recognised that the future global economy will be green. We need ambitious legislation to ensure European industries are at the fore in this new global economic order and do not miss the boat."

ENDS