COP28

The Government's policies are making net zero considerably harder to achieve and driving up energy bills. There is a need for action before COP, especially in the autumn statement next week, where we expect plans to reassure businesses that the Government still have net zero as part of their industrial strategy.

The UK has set an ambitious target for electric vehicles and is now in line with the rest of the European Union. The take-up of EVs in the UK is higher than many other countries.

The Conservative Government has cut emissions by more than any other major economy on earth and has the most ambitious plans for 2030. It was David Cameron, as the leader of the Conservatives, who first called for a climate Act.

Praises the Government's progress on climate change, recognising the necessity of a just transition. Acknowledges the Prime Minister's speech at COP27, highlighting aspects such as energy performance certificates and housing in rural areas. Emphasises the importance of protecting and restoring nature for net zero goals. Mentions Margaret Thatcher’s role in tackling climate change through the Montreal protocol and supports the UK Government's funding for international climate finance initiatives like those in India and Rwanda. Requests the Minister to encourage UAE to ratify the Kigali amendment ahead of COP28. Discusses various aspects of nature conservation, including mangroves and saltmarshes, advocating for their inclusion in greenhouse gas inventories. Acknowledges progress on reducing deforestation but calls for more action. Advocates for a cross-party approach to climate change legislation and international cooperation with countries like China and India.

Brock highlights the need for rapid structural change towards net zero emissions, advocating for a just transition that leaves no one behind. She mentions Scotland's commitment to end reliance on fossil fuels through investments like the £500 million Just Transition Fund and outlines actions taken by the Scottish Government to mitigate climate impacts.

Anderson underscores the devastating impact of climate change on vulnerable communities, particularly in Bangladesh. She advocates for an end to fossil fuel extraction and highlights five key concerns: phasing out fossil fuels, establishing a loss and damage fund, fulfilling climate finance pledges, reforming the global food system, and investing in climate-resilient water sanitation projects.

Stuart intervenes to correct Anderson's claim about the nature of UK's climate finance. He states that 85% of the country’s climate finance is grant-based, addressing a concern raised by Anderson.

Jim Shannon highlighted the importance of addressing climate change and discussed the upcoming COP28 conference in Dubai. He emphasised the need for innovation investment, regenerative agriculture, and national transformation to achieve net zero targets. He also acknowledged the commitment of farmers and landowners to reducing emissions, despite challenges. Shannon expressed appreciation for the inclusion of health issues in the COP agenda and praised local councils' efforts towards sustainable practices. Additionally, he reiterated his support for a united approach among regions of the UK to tackle climate change.

Emphasised the need to improve evidence gathering for climate change impacts in developing countries to better demonstrate their needs for adaptation funding.

Asked about discussions on critical minerals supply with key partners like Brazil and Indonesia within the Minerals Security Partnership.

Highlighted the importance of raising issues related to water, sanitation, and hygiene at COP28.

Asked about support for peatlands during COP28 and inquired about current emissions from peatlands due to practices like grouse moor management.