Question to the Department for Transport:
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what his planned timetable is for allocating additional funding to the devolved nations in order to have greener petrol across the UK.
In September, E10 petrol (petrol containing up to 10% bioethanol) was introduced as the standard petrol across Great Britain. The roll-out of this greener petrol will reduce carbon emissions associated with petrol vehicles and help us meet climate change targets. Subject to legislative approval E10 petrol will be introduced in Northern Ireland as soon as possible in 2022. There is no additional allocation of funding to devolved nations, the Department is providing appropriate support directly to petrol retailers and connected stakeholders.
Further to extensive consultation with industry the Government has chosen the least burdensome option of introducing E10 in the UK, one which avoids significant infrastructure changes. As part of the public information campaign supporting the introduction of E10 in Great Britain, the Department has made available publicity materials to assist retailers inform the public of the changes and ensure costs on the sector are minimised. A similar approach is planned for the introduction of E10 in Northern Ireland, and the UK Government will procure media advertising and provide support for retailers to inform motorists of the change.