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Air Quality

03 February 2021

Lead MP

Theresa Villiers

Debate Type

General Debate

Tags

TransportBenefits & Welfare
Other Contributors: 1

At a Glance

Theresa Villiers raised concerns about air quality in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

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
Theresa Villiers moved a Bill to improve air quality, emphasising that poor air quality is a significant threat to public health. She highlighted the need for further action beyond the Government's existing clean air strategy and called for urgent research on setting legally binding PM2.5 targets. The Environment Bill introduced by her previously would set rigorous environmental standards and accountability measures. Villiers also underscored the importance of protecting nature, reducing domestic burning pollution, and transitioning to cleaner forms of transport such as electric vehicles and buses. She warned about the potential negative impact of poorly implemented cycling lanes and low traffic neighbourhoods on air quality and emphasised the need for better enforcement of tailpipe emissions standards. The Government's £3.8 billion plan to reduce harmful transport emissions was praised, alongside a call for more investment in green jobs.
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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.