UK's Pro-Motorist Policies Fuel 'Greenlash' in Europe as Governments Face Backlash
🇬🇧 UK's Pro-Motorist Policies Fuel 'Greenlash' in Europe as Governments Face Backlash.
The UK government's recent pro-motorist policies have contributed to a "greenlash" against ambitious environmental initiatives in Europe. The Transport Minister, Mark Harper, introduced measures to protect motorists from what he called "over-zealous traffic enforcement," including limiting councils' ability to impose speed limits and simplifying parking payments. This shift aligns with the ruling Conservative Party's efforts to gain voter support, especially in rural areas, where some feel unfairly affected by green transport policies, ahead of the upcoming General Election. Other European countries have also witnessed similar pushbacks against green policies due to concerns about cost and overreach.
The UK's economy experienced its strongest growth in almost three years, with a 0.6% expansion in the first quarter of 2024, according to the Office for National Statistics.