Matthew Lynn presents valid points about the economic strain and potential unreliability of green energy transitions, using examples from other countries to support his argument. However, Lynn also employs flawed reasoning, such as selectively presenting evidence and appealing to the bandwagon effect, which undermines the overall credibility of his case.

1. bandwagon • The argument suggests that because other nations are reducing green targets, the UK should follow suit, regardless of the merit of the actual policy: ​

Right across the developed world... governments are scaling back their green targets... why can't Britain as well?

2. questionable cause • The text strongly implies a direct causal link between the UK's green policies and associated high energy prices, and the subsequent decline in industrial output and factory closures.

We can see the results in the wave of factory closures and the collapse in production. The chemical industry has witnessed a 40pc fall in output since 2021 alone, while overall output in energy intensive industries has fallen by 35pc over that time, and is now at a 35-year low.

While energy costs are a factor, the argument risks oversimplifying complex economic dynamics by attributing the industrial decline solely or predominantly to these policies, potentially overlooking other significant contributing factors or broader market forces.