Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Climate and Ecological Emergency: UK’s Response

09 February 2021 · 4 other contributors

Opened by Caroline Lucas Green Brighton, Pavilion

Climate

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Caroline Lucas raised concerns about climate and ecological emergency: uk’s response in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • MP raised concerns about UK's climate policy inconsistency and failure to meet carbon budgets.
  • Climate Change Act of 2008 is outdated due to new scientific findings requiring a net zero target by 2045 at latest.
  • Minister committed to doubling international climate finance to 11.6 billion and investing in nature-based solutions.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Caroline Lucas Green Brighton, Pavilion

The MP raised concerns about the UK's climate policy inconsistency and failure to meet carbon budgets. She highlighted that the Climate Change Act of 2008 is now outdated due to new scientific findings indicating a need for a net zero target by 2045 at latest. The speech emphasised the urgency of adopting the Climate and Ecological Emergency Bill, which aims to limit global warming to 1.5°C, conserve nature, and involve citizens in climate action. Lucas also called on the Government to account for emissions from international aviation and shipping, update consumption-based accounts, and engage citizens actively in tackling the crisis.

Other contributors (4)
  • Nadia Whittome Lab Nottingham East

    Supported Caroline Lucas's CEE Bill, emphasising its necessity to tackle climate and ecological emergencies comprehensively.

  • Patrick Grady SNP Glasgow North

    Expressed cross-party support for tackling the climate emergency, highlighting Scotland's ambitious carbon emissions reduction targets and commitment to a just transition.

  • Sarah Olney LD Barnet South

    Stressed the importance of the Bill in bringing together action on both climate change and the environment, emphasising the need for cross-departmental objectives within government.

  • Liz Saville-Roberts PC Dwyfor Meirionnydd

    Welcomed the debate's urgency and called for increased economic and borrowing powers for Wales to finance a rapid transition, stressing that centralised command alone cannot bring about necessary changes.

Government Response

Anne-Marie Trevelyan

The Minister acknowledged the urgency of climate change and committed to doubling international climate finance to £11.6 billion, with £3 billion for nature-based solutions. She highlighted significant progress in meeting carbon targets, including reducing emissions by almost 44% over three decades while growing the economy by 78%. The Government aims to lead a new green industrial revolution through the 10-point plan, investing in hydrogen, nuclear energy, and carbon capture technologies. A £2.8 billion package will accelerate the transition to electric vehicles. The Minister emphasised ensuring a just transition with measures such as the lifetime skills guarantee and launching the green jobs taskforce. She committed to using the COP26 presidency to promote ambitious action globally.

▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy