Backbench Business

Stresses the need for central government to support local authorities in implementing sustainable policies, citing examples from Bath and other Liberal Democrat-run councils. Criticises inadequate funding and overly competitive grant processes that prevent effective action on climate change.

Intervenes to agree with Hobhouse's points about the need for long-term, certain funding rather than piecemeal competitive funding for specific projects. Emphasises that local authorities cannot plan effectively without stable and reliable financial support.

Congratulates Hobhouse on the debate and supports the idea of more certain, long-term funding for effective net zero plans. Mentions Manchester City Council's ambitious target but notes the need for more support from central government.

Agrees that councils such as St Albans could make greater progress if they were not forced to compete against each other for funding. Highlights a successful project in her area but notes the limited impact due to competition.

Discusses the scale of retrofitting needed in York, noting the need for significant funding and skills development. Emphasises that central government must address these issues urgently if net zero targets are to be met.

Supports Hobhouse's call for large-scale funding to retrofit homes across the country. Emphasises that current ambition from central government is insufficient and highlights the need for more equitable distribution of funds.

Councils need to take genuine action on climate change rather than just declaring emergencies. They face funding challenges but should collaborate with the national government. Selaine criticises North Devon District Council for taking three years to produce a climate plan and only switching one vehicle to electric, questioning its impact. She supports UK100’s initiatives as they implement practical solutions for net zero emissions.

Intervenes to argue that the issue of insufficient electric charging points is a central government problem due to difficulties with grid connections and not just an issue for local authorities. She suggests the challenge lies in improving the national grid infrastructure.

Mr Wilson criticised the current emphasis on net zero targets in local government, arguing that it distracts from more immediate concerns such as antisocial behaviour and waste management. He highlighted environmental damage caused by wind farms and questioned their cost-effectiveness. Additionally, he pointed out that certain green policies have regressive economic impacts, particularly increasing food prices through levies on companies. Mr Wilson also challenged the notion of worsening extreme weather conditions, suggesting there is no clear evidence linking current climate actions to significant health savings.

Ms Cooper intervened twice during Mr Wilson's speech, questioning his stance on urgent climate action and its potential benefits for reducing energy bills and addressing public health issues such as those exacerbated by extreme weather conditions.

Ms Hobhouse also intervened to challenge Mr Wilson’s dismissal of increased wildfires, floods, and other climate-related extremities. She urged for a recognition of scientific evidence indicating the worsening trends in these areas.

I am proud that it was a Labour Government under Gordon Brown who passed the Climate Change Act 2008, which set legally binding targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, 13 years of Conservative Government have slowed progress by stripping local authority funds. Lewisham Council has led efforts to declare a climate emergency and implemented an action plan covering schools, housing, cycling, green spaces, among others. The council planted 25,000 trees between 2018 and 2023 and increased food waste recycling rates by 250%. The Mayor of London aims for net zero by 2030 with a focus on insulation targets and expanding the ULEZ scheme to cover small businesses. Toxic air contributes to 4,000 premature deaths annually in London, impacting children's health significantly.

Supports Janet Daby’s argument about the impact of air pollution on social justice, emphasising that poorer communities suffer disproportionately from environmental issues like pollution and lack of affordable public transport. She argues against the notion that there is a division between environmental justice and social justice.

Jim Shannon commends the debate's opening speaker and emphasises the importance of local government action on climate change. He cites examples from his constituency, such as the installation of solar-powered bus shelters in Moneyreagh, and discusses the role of councils in rural areas to decarbonize public transport. Shannon also raises concerns about offshore wind farms impacting fishing grounds and highlights the need for accessible electric vehicle charging points. He praises local initiatives like Belfast's climate plan and calls for better funding for devolved nations to achieve net zero targets.

The Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee’s report highlighted the importance of central and local government working together to achieve net zero emissions. The Climate Change Committee noted that councils have influence over approximately one-third of emissions in their areas, but the current government's estimation of 82% was not explained or acted upon with statutory targets for councils. Despite this, many councils like Wakefield are implementing plans such as replacing fleets and streetlights with electric alternatives, planting trees, building solar parks, and investing in renewable energy projects to become carbon-neutral by specific deadlines.

The Government’s plan for net zero is inadequate, leading to higher bills, energy insecurity, job losses, and delayed climate action. Local councils are doing their best with limited resources despite the lack of continuity and certainty in funding from the government. Bristol's Labour council has initiated a £424 million public-private partnership project called 'City Leap' to retrofit housing and reduce CO2 emissions by 140,000 tonnes while creating green jobs. Other examples include Hull’s collaborative net zero campaign involving 150 local organisations, Oxford's battery technology innovation, and Liverpool's tidal power scheme. A Labour government would recognise the role of councils in achieving net zero through a placed-based approach and provide them with necessary resources and powers.

Welcomed the opportunity to debate net zero and recognised contributions from Members across the House. Emphasised that the UK's 2050 net zero target is a Government priority, highlighting achievements such as reducing emissions by 48% while growing the economy by 65%. Stressed the role of local authorities in driving action on planning, energy, housing and transport, arguing against a new statutory requirement for local authorities to meet net zero due to existing high-level commitment. Mentioned ongoing collaboration with local government through ministerial forums, regional hubs, and financial support including devolution deals and the UK Infrastructure Bank.

Asked if the Government could give powers to local authorities regarding planning policies in order to facilitate green initiatives at a local level. Highlighted that some local authorities face challenges with their green policies being overturned by inspectors, suggesting that a net zero obligation within the planning process is necessary.

Expressed disappointment with the Minister's response and urged for more power and resources for local councils. Advocated for a statutory duty for councils to deliver net zero and suggested revisiting proposals for a net zero delivery authority.