Kemi Badenoch casts doubt on electric car targets over job loss fears

Kemi Badenoch would consider ‘easing’ the problem of carmakers selling more electric vehicles, her spokesperson said. Photograph: Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

Kemi Badenoch has suggested electric vehicle mandates could hamper investment in Britain and lead to job losses, in a sign that another of the government’s green pledges is in doubt.

The business secretary was discussing the automotive industry’s concerns about a rule to be introduced in January that will require manufacturers to ensure at least 22% of new sales in the UK are of emissions-free models, rising each year to reach 80% by 2030.