Tory MPs to Vote Against New Taxes on Boilers

Rishi Sunak, the Chancellor, is facing yet another rebellion as Conservative Members of Parliament (MPs) are planning to block new taxes on older boilers. The legislation, which aims to encourage Brits to switch to expensive heat pumps, is set to be debated in January. However, MPs argue that these charges will be passed onto consumers through higher energy bills.

Boiler Makers to Face Charges for Missing Green Targets

The proposed legislation will require boiler manufacturers to ensure that 4% of their sales are made up of heat pumps next year, with this percentage rising to 6% by the middle of the decade. Boiler makers who fail to meet these targets will face a £3,000 fine for each boiler. Manufacturers warn that this could lead to a £120 increase in energy bills to cover the costs of implementing heat pumps.

Rebellion by Net Zero Scrutiny Group

The Net Zero Scrutiny Group, which has approximately 50 Tory supporters, has stated that they will vote against any measure that places the burden on bill payers. Thanet MP Craig Mackinlay criticized the proposed new tax, calling it "another blow to hardworking families." He urged the Prime Minister to fulfill his promise of protecting families from the costs of net zero and scrap the tax.

Concerns Over Cost and Efficiency

Ex-Business Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg expressed concern that the green initiative would lead to inflation and lower living standards. He argued against taxing boilers and stated that if heat pumps are expensive and inefficient, people should not be forced to buy them. Similarly, ex-cabinet minister Sir John Redwood branded the charges as "a disgrace" and warned that they would result in higher prices for gas boilers without necessarily increasing the adoption of heat pumps.