The European climate commissioner-designate, Wopke Hoekstra, is in favor of taxing kerosene, an aviation fuel. Furthermore, the EU must set a target of reducing emissions by at least 90 percent compared to 1990 levels by 2040, the former Dutch foreign minister said yesterday at his hearing before members of the EU Parliament in Strasbourg .
The fact that kerosene, unlike diesel and gasoline, is not taxed is “absurd”. As climate commissioner, he also wants to work to end fossil fuel subsidies.
Tax on kerosene for compensatory measures
However, the transition to a climate-neutral economy can only be successful if the population is taken into account. Hoekstra mentioned, among other things, agriculture and countries in the Global South for which compensatory measures are needed.
Hoekstra cited the aforementioned taxes on kerosene as well as increased revenue from the issuance of emission certificates as possible sources of financing these compensation measures.
Struck self-critical tone
Hoekstra, who was a former Dutch finance minister, also struck a self-critical tone. The conservative politician felt his discontent during the coronavirus crisis because of harsh words about the budgetary policies of southern European member states. He described his statements at the time as a mistake.
Hoekstra is also viewed critically because he previously worked for oil company Shell and management consultancy McKenzie. The climate commissioner-designate largely avoided questions on this subject and referred mainly to his more recent role as finance minister and later foreign affairs minister. During his time as a management consultant, however, he never worked for Shell or the European Commission, says Hoekstra.