UK: The Mineral Products Association (MPA) has asked the Minister for Industry to delay the removal of a temporary €0.06/l discount on fuel and implement additional supportive measures for industry amidst the on-going Iran War. The association called for expanded access to the Energy Intensive Industries compensation scheme, a Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, financial support for new home buyers, accelerated public infrastructure funding and new incentives for private construction spending, including a super-deduction and relief on employer national insurance contributions.
Executive Chair of the MPA Chris Leese said "Our sector has already endured a prolonged market downturn over the past four years, impacting jobs, investment and the resilience of this essential foundation industry. Obviously, the events in the Middle East are not going to help. Our policy requests from before the latest conflict are key to get the economy going; now we need to add measures to tackle the imminent spike in energy costs. We need to see a delay to the removal of the cut in fuel duty and support for energy-intensive industries, including cement. During a period of heightened global uncertainty, it is essential that Government provides clear and stable economic policy signals to help businesses plan investment and keep housing and infrastructure delivery on track."