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Protection of Dark Skies
16 October 2023
Lead MP
Duncan Baker
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
NHSClimateAgriculture & Rural AffairsMental HealthLocal Government
Other Contributors: 2
At a Glance
Duncan Baker raised concerns about protection of dark skies in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
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 Member of Parliament for North Norfolk highlighted the importance of dark skies in his constituency, which includes two internationally recognised dark sky discovery sites. He emphasised the impact of light pollution on nocturnal wildlife and humans' mental health. The speech covered global increases in light pollution, its effects on biodiversity, particularly invertebrates, and the role of local planning authorities in managing light pollution. The MP also discussed the need for better-quality lighting, community-friendly measures, and reducing unnecessary lights to conserve energy. He called for national guidance to be more widely utilized and encouraged action from North Norfolk District Council.
Andrew Griffith
Lab
Arundel and South Downs
The MP highlighted the importance of light pollution guidelines and their impact on nocturnal species, mentioning the work done by conservation organisations.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
The MP emphasised the need for cross-party and cross-departmental collaboration to address light pollution issues effectively.
Government Response
NHSClimateAgriculture & Rural AffairsMental HealthLocal Government
Government Response
The Minister acknowledged the urgency of addressing light pollution and highlighted the environmental improvement plan, which sets out goals to reduce nature's decline by 2030. She noted the importance of reducing unnecessary artificial light while recognising its role in providing security. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is working with other Government Departments to address this issue. National Highways is investing in technology to adapt road lighting levels based on traffic flows. Local authorities are encouraged to upgrade to sensitive LED lighting where feasible, and statutory nuisance legislation includes artificial light as a potential nuisance. The Minister stressed the commitment of the current government to take light pollution seriously.
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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.