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Call for action on emissions scandal

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.”