§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions for what reasons the climate change levy is being imposed on timber-based industries. [87682]
§ Mr. MealeAll sectors will need to play their part in achieving our climate change targets, including the legally binding Kyoto target of a 12.5 per cent. reduction in greenhouse gas emissions over the period 2008 to 2012 compared with 1990. By changing relative prices, the climate change levy will help stimulate the implementation of further measures to improve energy efficiency in all sectors of business. These measures are expected to lead to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions of 1.5 million tonnes carbon per annum by 2010. The revenue from the levy will be recycled in full to business, principally through a 0.5 per cent. cut in employers' NICs.