Second-hand petrol and diesel cars will still be able to be brought into Jersey from 2030 after the Environment Minister rowed back on a proposal included in the government’s plan to reach net-zero carbon emissions.
The ‘Carbon Neutral Roadmap’ – approved by the States Assembly in 2022 – proposed a ban on the importation of all fossil-fuel-burning cars, new and used, from 1 January 2030, to help the island emit no more carbon than it can absorb by 2050.
Jersey has also signed up to an international agreement to achieve this aim.
However, following a public consultation that generated the most responses that the government has ever received, Deputy Steve Luce has removed the ‘used’ part of the equation.
The Environment Minister is yet to decide if a ban on new cars will be introduced in four years’ time, but told the States Assembly this week that he will report back before the end of next month.
“It has already become very clear that there is overwhelming support to modify the approach”
On the shelving of plans to ban used petrol and diesel cars, Deputy Luce said: “This has been a significant consultation on a major decision for the island.
“Over 2,000 individuals and businesses completed the consultation survey. We have also received dozens of written responses and seen hundreds of islanders at consultation events.
“We are now carefully analysing all submissions received, but it has already become very clear that there is overwhelming support to modify the approach envisaged in the Carbon Neutral Roadmap.”
“In particular, the inclusion of used vehicles in the scope of this policy has been something that is clearly not widely supported,” he continued.
“I have therefore concluded that, as we proceed with the phase-out, in whatever form, we will not be looking to universally restrict the importation and registration of used vehicles.”
A “more just transition for islanders”
Deputy Luce added: “However, it is not just public sentiment that has led me to this initial conclusion. Having now also received an early briefing on the economic impact assessment that has been undertaken in parallel with the consultation, I think there are other compelling reasons to announce this shift.
“Retaining the flow of used petrol and diesel vehicles into the Island will help enable a more just transition for islanders, ensuring the burden of change does not unnecessarily impact on those worst off.
“We must take steps to ensure affordability both at the point of purchase and for vehicle servicing and repairs. This is critical to preserving customer choice and ensuring that Islanders can manage the costs associated with day-to-day motoring.
“Further, it is essential that any changes in Jersey take account of and are aligned with the markets that serve us to avoid significant costs.
“I must stress, this is only a preliminary announcement intended to provide the early clarity I promised to motorists and the motor trades.
“In removing used vehicles from the policy scope, we are still left with some key choices about how we best reflect and formalise the UK’s planned phase-out, which is due to come into effect in 2030.”
