The present occupant of the White House will leave quite a legacy, but a coherent energy policy will not be part of it. Judging by the economic plan released by John McCain on Tuesday, do not expect an improvement on that score if the Republican candidate wins this year’s presidential election.

Top of Mr McCain’s plan is a proposed holiday for drivers from the federal tax on petrol this summer. The populist appeal is obvious. Americans do a lot of driving and are facing record petrol prices and the effects of a potential recession. Why not give them a break?