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COP26
20 October 2021
Lead MP
Julian Sturdy
York Outer
Con
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
TaxationClimateForeign AffairsCulture, Media & Sport
Other Contributors: 28
At a Glance
Julian Sturdy raised concerns about cop26 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:
Government Response
Our overarching objective of COP26 is to keep within reach the goal of limiting average global temperature rises to 1.5 °C. We have been asking countries to set out ambitious emissions reduction commitments and to come forward with adaptation plans, and we are asking developed countries to deliver on their climate finance promises. Science and innovation will be discussed at COP26, with a focus on science's role in tackling climate change. Emphasised the engagement with civil society and youth groups, addressed concerns over local governance issues in Glasgow, discussed consultations related to sustainable transport initiatives, and acknowledged the importance of meeting financial commitments ahead of COP26. Replied on waste management, climate action festivals, annual reporting for states, private sector involvement in achieving net zero, marine energy technologies, sustainable fishing practices, and the commitment of G20 nations to net zero.
Julian Sturdy
Con
York Outer
Asked about the policy objectives for COP26 and inquired whether Ministers would use COP26 to champion gene-editing technology as part of climate change solutions.
Rob Butler
Con
West Worcestershire
Inquired about the importance of local voluntary organisations in raising awareness about climate change and the need for behavioural changes at home, work, and in communities to achieve net zero emissions.
Kerry McCarthy
Lab
Bristol East
Asked about discussions with small island developing states to ensure their concerns are represented at COP26 and they have a voice in addressing climate change challenges.
Deidre Brock
SNP
Glasgow North West
Questioned the Government's aim for an equitable loss and damage agreement that compensates developing nations and recognises developed nations' disproportionate role in causing loss and damage due to climate change.
Philip Hollobone
Con
Kettering
Asked whether a strong Chinese delegation is expected at COP26 given China's significant carbon emissions since 2000.
Anna McMorrin
Lab
Cardiff North
Asked for an assessment of progress on limiting global heating to below 1.5°C and criticised the Government’s net zero road map as weak on land and agriculture, highlighting the need to address peatland burning.
Paul Howell
Con
Sedgefield
Argued that engaging people in climate change actions through issues like house heating costs could lead to more acceptance of green agendas.
Ed Miliband
Lab
Doncaster North
Critiqued the current pledges for COP26 as insufficient and suggested specific actions by other Government members to support the COP26 President in achieving the 1.5°C target.
Andrea Leadsom
Con
South West Norfolk
Asked about steps taken to prioritise support for a global green investment bank and promoted the UK's financial services sector role in promoting renewable technologies globally.
North East Fife
Inquired about measures to ensure human rights safeguarding in clean energy project development during COP26 discussions.
Wendy Chamberlain
Lib Dem
North East Fife
Raised concerns about human rights abuses in relation to solar firms linked to forced labour in Xinjiang, China.
Emphasised the UK's commitment to climate action and its efforts to address forced labour issues through detailed investigations and measures such as strengthening overseas business risk guidance.
David Mundell
Con
Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale
Asked about steps taken to engage with communities in preparation for COP26 and expressed disappointment over the SNP-led Glasgow City Council's approach to the event.
Inquired about civil society and youth consultations as part of preparations for COP26, highlighting specific local initiatives like walk-to-school days that promote environmental progress.
Stressed the importance of engaging with a range of societal groups including young people. He reported on meetings held with youth climate activists and indicated willingness to meet concerned Members regarding issues related to COP26.
Called for discussions on compensation for businesses affected by the closure of their premises during COP26 in Glasgow, expressing concern over lack of clarity from the Cabinet Office.
Wera Hobhouse
Lib Dem
Bath
Questioned the UK's credibility and negotiating position as COP26 President given proposals for new oil wells in Surrey, citing warnings by the International Energy Agency against further exploitation of fossil fuels.
Asked about steps taken to strengthen climate adaptation and resilience at COP26 and sought clarity on support levels for poorer countries towards transition and adaptation measures.
Greenwich and Woolwich
Highlighted the importance of developed countries honouring their financial commitments, particularly the $100 billion promise, before COP26 in Glasgow.
Asked for an assessment on the adequacy of nationally determined contribution commitments published ahead of COP26 and inquired about specific country practices regarding aviation and maritime emissions.
Laura Trott
Con
Sevenoaks
Sought assurances from the Minister that interim targets would be set to reassure constituents about progress towards carbon budget goals.
Jeff Smith
Lab
Manchester Withington
Asked about the inclusion of waste management in the COP26 agenda and climate finance allocation for managing waste, highlighting that a third of people globally lack access to waste management services.
Celebrated the Harrogate District Climate Change Coalition's first climate action festival and invited the Minister to participate in future events.
Inquired whether states need to report annually on their progress towards a 1.5°C pathway, rather than waiting until 2025 for a five-year reset.
Stressed the importance of private sector involvement in reaching net zero by 2050 and asked if the COP President would highlight more companies' commitment to net zero.
Alistair Carmichael
Lib Dem
Orkney and Shetland
Discussed the need for a pot within a pot in contract for difference auctions for tidal stream generation and requested support from the Secretary of State and COP President.
Asked about conversations with fishermen regarding potential environmental agreements, highlighting their role as small businesses.
Darren Jones
Lab
Bristol North West
Inquired whether the COP President expects all G20 nations to commit to net zero by law at COP26.
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