UK tackles EU on emission targets

• Transport Secretary opposes EU plans
• Alternative proposals suggested
• Aston Martin and Bentley stand to lose out

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The Government is urging the European Union to delay stringent carbon dioxide emission targets for car manufacturers.

A report in The Times newspaper says Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly is urging the EU to scrap plans for a 125g/km carbon dioxide limit for all new cars from 2015, which should get the go-ahead next year.

Instead, she wants the EU to replace the proposals with a 100g/km carbon dioxide target for the average new car between 2020 and 2025.

Kelly says the EU's current proposals demand too much of car companies such as Aston Martin and Bentley, which sell a relatively small number of high-emission cars and do not have the resources to meet the new legislation in the time available.

A spokesman for the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said: 'The kneejerk target is unrealistic and unfeasible. A 2020 or 2025 target would give us time to plan.'