Transport

The debate focuses on a statutory instrument that sets out a sustainable aviation fuel obligation, which aims to reduce carbon emissions by up to 2.7 megatonnes of CO2 equivalents in 2030 and 6.3 megatonnes by 2040. The order includes strict sustainability criteria for SAF eligibility, such as the requirement for fuels to be made from sustainable wastes or residues, and not from food, feed or energy crops. This will create demand for domestic production of SAF, generating up to 60,000 new jobs and adding up to £10 billion gross value added per annum by 2050.

Urges the Government to ensure affordable transitions towards sustainable aviation fuels, highlighting the potential economic benefits including £1.8 billion in GDP growth and over 10,000 jobs by 2040. Calls for government support to accelerate SAF technology development and production, especially through grants or subsidies.

Acknowledges the importance of sustainable aviation fuels in creating up to 60,000 jobs by 2050 and contributing £10 billion to the UK economy. Stresses the need for strict sustainability standards and responsible sourcing of green fuels from within the United Kingdom.

There is consensus on the need to decarbonise the aviation sector, with support for the proposed SAF mandate. However, there are concerns about the targets from 2030 to 2040 and a call for more ambitious goals. The Liberal Democrats also propose additional measures such as banning short-haul domestic flights that can be done by rail in less than 2.5 hours, linking flight costs to environmental impact, imposing a super-tax on private jet flights, and removing VAT exemptions for certain classes of flights.

In his maiden speech as the new Member for Exeter, Steve Race congratulates the Deputy Speaker and pays tribute to those who have worked hard in the House. He mentions the historical significance of Exeter's parliamentary seat and praises his predecessor Sir Ben Bradshaw for his dedication to education reform in Exeter. Race highlights the improvements made to Exeter’s educational system and its standing as a UNESCO city of literature. He also emphasises the importance of diversity, inclusivity, and community engagement, mentioning initiatives such as the Respect festival and Pride parade. He expresses hope for continued success in tackling climate change and fostering scientific research through collaboration with universities and institutions like the Centre for Future Clean Mobility.

Congratulations the hon. Member for Exeter on his maiden speech; paid respects to the speaker's sister and her reliance on the NHS; praised Newbury's rich history, dating back 3,000 years with Thatcham being recorded in The Guinness Book of Records as the oldest continuously inhabited settlement; discussed boundary changes that affected Newbury; highlighted local landmarks such as Vodafone, Xtrac, Stryker, Benchmark furniture company, Welford Park, and Watermill Theatre; emphasised the importance of environmental protection; recognised his immediate predecessor Laura Farris for her work on sexual abuse and violence against women; mentioned Richard Benyon's service from 2005 to 2019; highlighted the need for a new Royal Berkshire hospital in Reading; supported local community hospitals like West Berkshire Community Hospital; raised concerns about poverty, food banks, winter fuel allowance removal, housing affordability, and social rent homes; thanked constituents, local team, family members for support.

Expressed gratitude towards his predecessor, Stephen Metcalfe, acknowledged the support of constituents in a closely fought election, thanked colleagues for their tireless work, and emphasised his commitment to serve with openness, honesty, accessibility, and availability. He also highlighted the diversity and historical significance of South Basildon and East Thurrock, including its natural beauty, industrial heritage, and cultural landmarks such as Horndon-on-the-Hill mentioned in the Domesday Book and Fobbing related to the Peasants' Revolt.

The debate has had good cross-party support. The legislation aims to decarbonise aviation, as first discussed in the Labour Government's White Paper in 2003. SAF will be more expensive than traditional jet fuel but it is right that polluters bear these costs rather than the government. By 2030, tickets are expected to increase by £4 (a 2% rise) and by 2040 by £10 (5.5%). The Government recognises ongoing efforts in private industry for sustainable aviation fuel production. This supports industrial regeneration in post-industrial areas.

The hon. Member paid tribute to his predecessor and acknowledged the former Member's role in transport debates.

Acknowledged that there are too many anagrams in the field of sustainable aviation fuel but agreed with Mike Kane’s points about good industrial jobs. Emphasised the importance of new technologies like hydrogen battery power.

Made a well-considered maiden speech and discussed the importance of sustainable aviation fuel in decarbonisation efforts.

Acknowledged the home of “The Great British Bake Off” in his constituency and emphasised the need to protect chalk streams and skies for future generations.