EPP-Group supported by other political Groups tabled amendment to be prepared for a hard Brexit

In a case of failure of the negotiations on a Brexit agreement, the British industry should not have an undue advantage and European competitors should not have an undue disadvantage. That`s why the biggest parliamentary Group in the European Parliament (EPP) supported by other political Groups tabled an amendment on the ETS directive. The European Parliament will discuss the Girling-report on the inclusion of aviation in the ETS on Monday and will vote on it on Wednesday. Given the raising concern that there is no comprehensive agreement with the UK government during the two years negotiation, MEPs take precautionary action. Allowances given to UK companies free should not be valid in the EU-ETS if those companies don`t have any more obligations under the ETS.

Peter Liese, spokesperson of the EPP Group on environment, expects a broad support for the amendment. “I very much hope, that in the end the United Kingdom will continue to stay in the ETS. In fact, the UK government, UK MEPs and UK business have always been strong supporters of the ETS. That`s why I would find it ridiculous if the UK leaves the ETS after Brexit. However, unfortunately, it cannot be excluded that many of the responsible people in the UK government obviously have unrealistic assumptions concerning the possible deal. That`s why we have to prepare for a hard Brexit,” Liese concluded.