Call for action on emissions scandal
Posted on January 10 2017 at 09:22
An
SNP MP has renewed calls on the UK government to take action on companies
involved in the emissions rigging scandal, following the news that
thousands of Volkswagen owners in the UK are set to sue for compensation.
Stewart
McDonald MP, the SNP member of the Transport Select Committee who has
campaigned on the issue, welcomed the move and called on Transport Secretary
Chris Grayling MP to finally take robust action against Volkswagen and other
companies, including by making use of the power to issue a fine.
Commenting Stewart McDonald MP said:
“I welcome moves by Volkswagen owners to take action against the company
for its involvement in the emissions rigging scandal, however it really ought
not to have come to this.
“The UK government has failed to follow the lead of other countries in taking
swift and robust action against companies involved in the scandal – instead
choosing to dither and drag its heels in the face of calls from campaigners,
myself and other members of the Transport Select Committee.
“As Transport Secretary, Chris Grayling has the power to issue a fine to
Volkswagen and I would urge him to consider using that power to send a strong
message - so far he has been hesitant to do so.
“Failure to take robust action on behalf of the public will send the signal
that this sort of behaviour is okay, and that matters concerning public health
and emissions are not important. That is an incredibly dangerous and
irresponsible road to go down.”
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