Cheaper and Environmentallyfriendly FUEL

MP URGES GOVERNMENT TO SUPPORT DEVELOPMENT OF ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY FUEL.

Hugh Robertson has today urged the government to offer the duty cut necessary to kick start the development of environmentally friendly fuels. A rate cut of approximately 30% (specifically targeted at biofuels) would make their cultivation economically viable.

Hugh is Secretary of the Parliamentary Fruit Group and has taken a keen interest in both agriculture and horticulture. His statement, made to the Secretary of State Patricia Hewitt, came during a debate in Parliament on the government's White Paper on Energy.

Hugh Robertson said: "The development of biofuels would provide diversification for farmers, employment in rural areas and would have inestimable environmental benefits.

"However, the current structure of fuel duty is strangling the development of the UK industry and leaves us trailing other European countries who are developing this energy source.

"I urge the government both to offer the necessary duty incentives and to set clear targets for the use of biofuels as part of our future energy needs.