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Solar Supply Chains
16 April 2024
Lead MP
Alicia Kearns
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
Crime & Law EnforcementEconomyClimateNorthern IrelandForeign AffairsBusiness & Trade
Other Contributors: 0
At a Glance
Alicia Kearns raised concerns about solar supply chains in the House of Commons. A government minister responded.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The solar industry will play an important role in the Government’s net zero plans, but current roll-out lacks oversight of land use, food security considerations, and protections against Uyghur forced labour. The Sheffield Hallam University reports highlighted severe human rights abuses, yet their findings have not been enacted. The MP proposes import controls, targeted sanctions, and supply chain diversification to insulate the UK market from dirty solar. Companies such as Canadian Solar are linked with forced labour in Xinjiang; its Mallard Pass project is under scrutiny. The lack of Government action on these issues risks turning the UK into a dumping ground for solar panels tainted by slavery.
Government Response
Crime & Law EnforcementEconomyClimateNorthern IrelandForeign AffairsBusiness & Trade
Government Response
The Minister emphasised that UK businesses should not engage with solar panels from companies linked to forced labour, noting the Government's efforts in enhancing export controls and introducing penalties for non-compliance under the Modern Slavery Act. The Procurement Act 2023 enables public sector authorities to reject bids from suppliers involved in forced labour. He highlighted the establishment of a sub-group within the solar taskforce to develop resilient and sustainable supply chains free from forced labour, aiming for 70 GW of solar capacity by 2035. The Minister assured that companies knowingly engaging in such practices will face accountability, and that initiatives cover all parts of the UK including Northern Ireland.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.