A seismic shift in public opinion is threatening to derail the UK's Net Zero ambitions, as a major new poll reveals a majority of Britons now oppose the cornerstone policies of the green agenda.
The exclusive Deltapoll survey for the Daily Mail uncovers deep-seated resistance to the looming 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars, with a staggering 59% of the public against the move. The findings deliver a powerful blow to Westminster's environmental strategy and suggest a growing chasm between policymakers and the people.
The Rising Cost of Going Green
At the heart of this rebellion is the soaring cost of living. The poll indicates that the financial burden of transitioning to Net Zero is now a primary concern for households across the nation. A resounding 71% of respondents reject the idea of any new taxes aimed at funding the green transition, highlighting a firm unwillingness to bear additional costs.
This opposition cuts across political lines, geographic regions, and age demographics, painting a picture of a nation united by economic anxiety rather than divided by politics.
Key Findings from the Poll
- Car Ban Opposition: 59% are against the 2030 ban on new internal combustion engine vehicles.
- Tax Resistance: 71% oppose any new taxes to pay for Net Zero policies.
- Financial Anxiety: 64% believe the government is not providing enough support to help people switch to electric vehicles.
- Political Divide: Conservative voters show the strongest opposition (75%), but significant resistance exists among Labour supporters too.
A Policy Heading for the Rocks?
The plummeting support presents a monumental challenge for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The 2030 ban, a flagship policy inherited from Boris Johnson's government, now appears to be on a collision course with public sentiment.
This growing backlash is not just about cars; it's a referendum on the pace and cost of the entire Net Zero transition. With a general election looming, these findings will force all parties to recalibrate their environmental messaging and policies.
The public mood suggests that practicality and affordability have overtaken idealism in the climate debate, signalling a potentially rocky road ahead for the UK's green revolution.
