ST JOHN’S, Antigua – Prime Minister Gaston Browne has admitted government bowed to public pressure when it reversed the decision to impose a ban on the importation of used cars that are five years and older.
“We had to reverse the policy because of public pressure, but I hope that some time in the future we can look at the issue dispassionately and to determine the cut off limit, because we cannot have a situation in which individuals with impunity importing vehicles which are 10 15 years into the country,” Browne said during a press conference yesterday.
Browne said government was attempting to curb the number of vehicles being imported out of Japan because of environmental concerns. The ban went into effect on October 15.
“I know there is any issue about costing and that these vehicles are affordable, but some of them do represent an environmental hazard. In fact, they are not allowed to be on the streets in Japan. However, we are readily taking those vehicles into our country and evidently would be literally doing harm to the environment,” he further stated.
The Cabinet decision, which was announced earlier this week, was met with strong condemnation from all circles. (Antigua Observer)
