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A Green Industrial Revolution
15 January 2020
Lead MP
Andrea Leadsom
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
EconomyTransportClimateEnergyLocal Government
Other Contributors: 81
At a Glance
Andrea Leadsom raised concerns about a green industrial revolution 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
Congratulated the Speaker on their role, acknowledged Rebecca Long Bailey's leadership bid in her party. Emphasised Margaret Thatcher's early warnings about climate change and highlighted the UK's progress in reducing emissions while growing the economy. Noted recent extreme weather events around the world as a call to action, committed to leading global efforts towards climate change mitigation through the green industrial revolution, and outlined specific achievements such as decarbonisation since 2000, increase in renewable electricity generation from 2010 onwards, first coal-free days/weeks/fortnights since 2017, and legislation for net zero emissions by 2050.
Caroline Lucas
Green
Brighton Pavilion
Questioned the Secretary of State on the accuracy of reported emission reductions figures, highlighting that consumption-based emissions are not factored in, leading to a much smaller reduction when accounting for such emissions.
Alan Brown
SNP
Kilmarnock and Loudoun
Acknowledged some achievements but pointed out Lord Deben's concerns about the inadequacy of current policies to meet net zero targets by 2050, questioning whether the Secretary of State would address these issues in her speech.
Janet Daby
Lab
Lewisham East
Asked if the Government's policies are sufficiently ambitious to meet their climate change targets, referencing advice from the Committee on Climate Change that the UK is off track for an 80% emissions reduction by 2050.
Anna McMorrin
Lab
Cardiff North
Critiqued the Government's ban on onshore wind, calling for its reintroduction as the most tried and tested form of renewable energy technology across all parts of the UK.
Philip Dunne
Con
Ludlow
Complimented the Secretary of State’s initiative, mentioning the collapse of Ironbridge power station towers during the general election period and a potential new industry in driverless vehicles on reclaimed land.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Suggested implementing a reward system for local councils that set climate change standards and environmental targets, to encourage more proactive measures from these bodies.
Steve Double
Con
St Austell and Newquay
Inquired about support for Cornwall's potential role in the lithium industry due to recent discoveries of large deposits, seeing it as an opportunity to revive the mineral extraction industry and place Cornwall at the forefront of technological advancements.
Tan Dhesi
Lab
Slough
Acknowledged the Secretary of State's mention of electric vehicles and Slough Borough Council's efforts. Asked about measures to support councils financially beyond platitudes.
Rupa Huq
Lab
Ealing Central and Acton
Congratulated on the commitment to biodiversity net gain in planning authorities, urging immediate implementation ahead of Ealing Council's meeting.
Jamie Stone
Lib Dem
Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross
Acknowledged progress on electric vehicles but raised concerns about affordability and suggested a tax break through PAYE to encourage their purchase.
Clive Efford
Lab
Eltham and Chislehurst
Noted the lack of action following environmental target commitments despite vocal support for net zero targets.
Salford
Agreed with much of what was said but stressed the need for honesty, ambition, and fairness in tackling climate change. Urged revisiting the 2050 net zero target given the UK's historical responsibility.
Alex Sobel
Lab Co-op
Leeds Central and Headingley
Emphasised the additional responsibility of COP26 as an opportunity to lead the world in climate action beyond supporting domestic industries.
Lloyd Russell-Moyle
12:59:00
Advocates for the early adoption of a zero-carbon target, highlighting the failure of the current government to enforce passive house standards and the need to lead in green product development.
Salford
Emphasises the importance of robust targets alongside a comprehensive industrial strategy that supports various sectors, such as steel and automotive industries. Points out the inadequacy of current progress towards climate change goals.
Tan Dhesi
Lab
Slough
Critiques the government's failure to meet its own targets and advocates for reversing cuts to renewable energy subsidies, highlighting the importance of green jobs in unionised industries.
Janet Daby
Lab
Lewisham East
Points out the lack of charging options for electric cars, questioning whether the government is ambitious enough to support the UK’s electric vehicle needs.
Jessica Morden
Lab
Newport East
Advocates for government support in revitalizing the steel industry, crucial for electric vehicles production and a key part of green industrial revolution.
Questions the feasibility of reaching net-zero emissions by 2030 and challenges Labour's plans for home insulation programmes to achieve this goal.
Jim McMahon
Lab Co-op
Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton
Highlights the failure of the government in supporting local initiatives against clean air crisis, particularly in Greater Manchester.
Disputes claims linking climate change to environmental disasters such as fires in Amazon and Australia, citing alternative causes like agricultural expansion and arson.
Kerry McCarthy
Lab
Bristol East
Corrects misinformation regarding the cause of Australian bushfires, emphasising the importance of accurate data in climate change discussions.
Jamie Stone
Lib Dem
Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross
Advocates for a dedicated income stream to support devolved institutions in addressing the financial burden of restoration works due to climate-related disasters.
Salford
We cannot detach ourselves from the reality of climate change and its impact on us; it is already affecting us, particularly in terms of imported food disruptions. We need to protect people here by leading globally on this issue.
Congratulates Extinction Rebellion and People and Planet for their work and urges the Parliament to divest from fossil fuels as universities are doing so, highlighting the necessity of aligning Parliamentary actions with environmental goals.
Salford
The Queen’s Speech lacks ambition regarding climate change and does not adequately address fairness in transitioning to a low-carbon economy. It fails to provide an emergency plan, clear funding for just transition funds, and long-term goals.
Caroline Nokes
Con
Romsey and Southampton North
Critiques the proposed incinerator project in her constituency as not environmentally friendly despite claims of generating green energy. Calls for stricter scrutiny on such projects to avoid long-term environmental damage.
Alan Brown
SNP
Glasgow Central
Mr Brown questioned whether the UK has truly experienced a green industrial revolution, noting that the scrapping of the Department for Energy and Climate Change by the Conservative government highlights their lack of focus on climate change. He argued that while there have been advancements in renewable energy, policy changes have led to instability. For instance, despite initial success with onshore wind projects in Scotland, current UK Government policies are hindering further development, leading to potential job losses and increased energy costs. Mr Brown also criticised the removal of subsidies for onshore wind after 2014 and called for a strategic vision regarding interconnectors to enhance renewable deployment. He highlighted failures like the carbon capture fiasco in Peterhead and the detrimental impact of VAT increases on solar installations, suggesting these actions have hampered sustainable growth. Mr Brown questioned why the Government continues to pursue expensive nuclear projects despite cheaper alternatives like offshore wind.
Andrea Leadsom
Con
South Northamptonshire
Ms Leadsom responded to Mr Brown's comments by pointing out that there is a difference between baseload energy generation and the variability of renewable sources, implying that nuclear energy plays an essential role in providing consistent power supply.
Alan Brown
SNP
Clydebank and Milngavie
The Secretary of State is aware that the argument for baseload power to prevent blackouts has become outdated, with Hinkley Point C delayed until 2025 despite being initially required by December 2017. Brown argues against new nuclear power stations due to decommissioning timelines and market changes, advocating instead for investment in marine, tidal energy, and floating offshore wind technologies. He criticises the UK Government's lack of support for onshore wind development which led to technological advancements moving abroad, particularly to Denmark. Brown also questions why local supply chain benefits are not rewarded through CfD auctions, suggesting this would create industrial jobs and benefit companies like BiFab and CS Wind in Scotland. The emphasis is placed on hitting net zero emissions by 2050 via a green industrial revolution including CCS and hydrogen boilers for heating systems. He criticises the UK Government's failure to provide an energy White Paper despite promises, highlighting that Scotland has four times more investment per capita in energy efficiency measures and leads in climate change targets. Brown raises concerns about fuel poverty with over 3,000 deaths annually and argues against the current ECO scheme as it disproportionately affects those least able to afford improvements. He calls for urgent action on energy efficiency and criticises the UK's slow transition towards electric vehicles compared to Norway’s progress.
Simon Fell
Con
Barrow and Furness
Welcomed the Deputy Speaker, paid tribute to his predecessor John Woodcock. Described Barrow and Furness as an industrial town with a rich history in shipbuilding and nuclear deterrence, now looking towards renewable energy opportunities such as offshore wind farms and tidal barrages. Emphasised the importance of securing the future of Barrow and Furness by addressing infrastructure issues like rail services and roads, and highlighted the need for investment in healthcare and education.
Kerry McCarthy
Lab
Bristol East
The planet is facing a climate and ecological crisis, but there is a lack of confidence in the Government's ability to address it. The hon. Member highlighted two ministerial appearances that raised concerns regarding the context of Australian bushfires and Flybe bailout without mentioning climate change or carbon emissions impact. She also criticised the absence of a statement on COP25 despite its significance for COP26 hosting. McCarthy welcomed the direction set by the environment Bill but expressed concern over long-term targets not being enforced until 2022, and noted that the Office of Environmental Protection lacks independence to hold the Government accountable. The hon. Member also stressed the need for a national tree strategy, peat land restoration, measuring consumption rather than just production, and reducing carbon emissions overseas through UK Export Finance. Additionally, she mentioned disappointment with the agriculture Bill's minor tweaks and called for financial commitment on delivering public goods in future trade deals.
Gary Sambrook
Con
Birmingham, Northfield
Gary Sambrook gave his maiden speech focusing on the importance of industrial heritage and green industry in Birmingham. He paid tribute to Richard Burden, a former Member for Northfield, noting their shared passion for motorsport despite differences. Highlighting his constituency's history as part of the industrial revolution, he mentioned significant local industries such as Cadbury and Austin Motors. Sambrook emphasised adapting to new economic opportunities brought by green industry while reflecting on his personal journey from a disadvantaged background in Birmingham to becoming an MP.
Grahame Morris
Lab
Easington
Congratulates new MPs on their maiden speeches and highlights the need to resolve the economic divide between north and south. Emphasises the Sheffield Hallam University report, 'The State of the Coalfields 2019', which details problems and solutions. Criticises the concentration of power in Whitehall and Westminster, leading to under-investment in northern constituencies like Easington. Advocates for Labour's green industrial revolution plan with £13 billion investment aimed at creating 80,000 new jobs, expanding ports, manufacturing electric vehicles, improving housing standards, and reducing emissions. Calls for targeted support from the shared prosperity fund for former coalfield areas. Critiques previous government policies that have harmed northern constituencies through budget cuts, abolition of regional development agencies, and lack of industrial policy support. Suggests specific actions from Sheffield Hallam University report to address legacy failures in health issues, employment rates, skills shortages, welfare reform impacts, and education cuts. Promotes Easington's potential for green business growth with existing infrastructure, including electric vehicle manufacturing capabilities and new recycling plant openings.
Philip Dunne
Con
Worcestershire South
Welcomes the cross-party consensus on the environment, acknowledges differences in speed and scale of action required but stresses the importance of leading the way to mitigate climate change. Notes disagreements over targets and urges for realistic approaches while highlighting local authorities' efforts in setting their own climate change strategies. Advocates for COP26 as an opportunity to develop clear action plans. Emphasises the role of Parliament, particularly committees like Environmental Audit Committee, in scrutinising measures such as the Environment Bill and Agriculture Bill. Highlights potential leadership in green finance and alternative technologies.
Zarah Sultana
Your Party
Coventry South
Expressed gratitude to constituents and predecessor Jim Cunningham. Highlighted Coventry's rich history, culture, and its hosting of UK City of Culture 2021. Criticised the Tory government for austerity measures affecting working-class communities. Emphasised the widening gap between the super-rich and the working class due to tax cuts and income increases for the wealthy while services were cut and wages stagnated. Condemned divisive rhetoric by highlighting social issues such as the Hillsborough disaster and climate change caused primarily by large corporations and billionaires, advocating for a green new deal to transition from capitalism to socialism.
Gillian Keegan
Con
Chichester
Congratulations the Deputy Speaker on re-election. Welcomes new voices from working-class backgrounds. Emphasises UK's leadership in green industrial revolution, highlighting rapid decarbonisation and growth of renewables. Mentions commitment to net zero carbon economy by 2050 or sooner. Supports increasing offshore wind power output to 40 GW by 2030. Advocates for diverse energy mix due to concerns over wind turbine efficiency. Praises solar panel installations and local projects in West Sussex, including a landfill site conversion into a solar farm without central subsidy. Highlights government and business contributions to transforming the energy market, urging further investment in emerging technologies like tidal power. Discusses infrastructure needs for electric vehicles, welcoming £400 million charging infrastructure fund but suggesting faster progress on phasing out petrol and diesel cars by 2035. Requests extension of plug-in car grant and implementation of a levy on new petrol/diesel cars to fund incentives for electric vehicle adoption.
Caroline Lucas
Green
Brighton Pavilion
Ms Lucas highlighted the urgency of addressing climate change and criticised the UK's current approach, which she argued is insufficient. She noted that while the Government has committed to a green industrial revolution, their strategy falls short in three critical areas: transparency, timelines for action, and equitable distribution of resources. She emphasised the importance of immediate action over setting distant targets and stressed that relying on unproven negative emission technologies is not a viable solution. Furthermore, she criticised the UK's historical carbon footprint, asserting that it has taken far more than its fair share of the global carbon budget and must address this legacy of colonialism. Ms Lucas proposed transitioning to an economic model focused on well-being rather than GDP growth, advocating for measures such as scaling down material consumption in richer countries by 20% globally, prioritising quality of life over quantity, and implementing a green new deal to transform the economy while addressing climate, nature, and inequality crises.
Claire Coutinho
Con
East Surrey
Pays tribute to her predecessor Sam Gyimah and acknowledges the rich political heritage of East Surrey, highlighting its natural beauty and environmental significance. She expresses a commitment to preserving local communities and advocating for infrastructure investment in roads and public transport to support economic productivity. Emphasises the importance of renewable energy initiatives, particularly wind power, and supports government measures outlined in the Queen’s Speech and upcoming Budget aimed at promoting sustainability. Commits to ensuring national funding announcements have tangible impacts on schools, healthcare, and law enforcement locally.
Jim McMahon
Lab Co-op
Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton
He expresses concern over the climate emergency's impact and highlights economic opportunities through a green revolution. He also emphasises the need to connect communities with environmental protection efforts and discusses local projects like Northern Roots in Oldham.
Bob Stewart
Con
Beckenham
Acknowledges human influence on climate change, mentions health impacts due to pollution, and highlights progress made in reducing carbon emissions. He notes the UK's leadership in renewable energy generation and discusses future transportation alternatives such as electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel.
Stewart emphasises the need to address particulate matter in the air, noting that it is significantly smaller than a grain of sand and can cause illness and death. He cites a DEFRA report stating that only 12% of particulates come from vehicles, with industrial processes contributing about 13% and wood burning and coal fires accounting for around 38%. Stewart supports the clean air strategy published in January 2019, advocating for changes in domestic heating practices and farming to reduce particulate matter.
Wera Hobhouse
Lib Dem
Bath
Hobhouse differentiates between air pollution and climate change, arguing that while they are interconnected issues, they require distinct approaches. She notes that particulate matter, although a concern for health, is separate from the broader issue of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Chalk supports incentivising the installation of ground-source and air-source heat pumps through tax benefits to facilitate the replacement of fossil fuel systems, aiming to reduce carbon emissions.
Tim Farron
Lib Dem
Westmorland and Lonsdale
The hon. Member expresses concern over the Government's approach to addressing climate change, fearing they will overspend on revenue while underdelivering on infrastructure investment needed for a green industrial revolution. He highlights the devastating impacts of climate change in his constituency, particularly from floods caused by storms such as Storm Desmond. He calls for urgent action on flood prevention schemes and emphasises the importance of ambitious changes to public transport services outside London and Manchester. He advocates for improved subsidies for rural bus networks and the electrification of key routes like the Lakes line to reduce carbon emissions and improve sustainable tourism.
Vicky Ford
Con
Chelmsford
Welcomed the Queen’s Speech and emphasised investment in public services, science, technology, and infrastructure. Highlighted the importance of achieving net zero emissions and supporting climate-friendly policies such as investing in renewable energy and electric vehicles. Emphasised the need for smart demand management and more EV charging points. Also mentioned the benefits of hydrogen-fuelled cars and cleaner aircraft development. Called for embedding net zero in every Government decision, including improving carbon offsetting practices.
David Linden
SNP
Glasgow East
Asked Vicky Ford about the compatibility between achieving net zero emissions and the Government’s plan to cut air passenger duty.
Alan Brown
SNP
Clydebank and Milport
Inquired how the decision to reduce Air Passenger Duty could be compatible with embedding net zero in every Government decision as suggested by Vicky Ford.
Kenny MacAskill
SNP
East Lothian
Tribute to predecessor Martin Whitfield and acknowledges the historical significance of East Lothian, highlighting the contributions of previous MPs such as John P. Mackintosh and George Kerevan. Emphasises the importance of new industries like renewables in the constituency and the enduring values of its people. Discusses historical events related to Oliver Cromwell and the Earl of Liverpool and their impact on Scottish history. Concludes by expressing concern over the potential threats to the welfare state, NHS, and Scotland's nationhood under the current Tory Government.
Richard Drax
Con
South Dorset
Mr Drax congratulated the hon. Member for East Lothian on his speech and expressed support for the Government's ambitious path, while urging common sense in implementation to avoid unemployment due to unachievable targets. He discussed nine subjects affecting his constituency: NHS service changes, social care funding, education funding, home ownership, the justice system, police funding, infrastructure improvements, business rates, transport networks, and armed services spending.
Rosie Winterton
Lab
Stockport South and Whalley
Ms Winterton called Alex Davies-Jones to make her maiden speech.
Pontypridd
I will uphold the radical and fair political values of my constituency. The lack of government investment in Wales, especially for future technologies like tidal lagoon technology, is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed. I aim to promote the Well-being of Future Generations Act 2015 and ensure the climate emergency remains at the forefront of discussions. My commitment includes working towards a green industrial revolution and ensuring fairness and equality for my constituents.
Peter Aldous
Con
Bury St Edmunds
Congratulates the hon. Member for Pontypridd on her speech and highlights the green industrial revolution taking place in Suffolk and Norfolk, including offshore wind farms and revitalising the fishing industry post Brexit. Mentions that 4 GW of offshore wind power is already operational off the East Anglian coast, accounting for over 50% of UK’s installed capacity. Advocates for a cost-effective pathway to achieve net zero target by embedding it across government decisions on spending. Also highlights the need for investment in infrastructure and supply chains to ensure regional businesses can realise their full potential.
Anna McMorrin
Lab
Cardiff North
Pays tribute to Members for their maiden speeches and highlights the threat posed by climate change, specifically mentioning the potential collapse of a vast part of the west Antarctic ice sheet. She notes that this could lead to a rise in sea levels by more than three metres if carbon dioxide levels continue to rise. Anna criticises the Government's current plans for reducing emissions as inadequate, pointing out that they will miss their climate targets and not meet net zero by 2050. She calls on the government to stop subsidising fossil fuel projects through UK Export Finance. Additionally, she points out a decline in new solar installations and an effective ban on new onshore wind power. Anna argues for a bold green industrial revolution that creates clean jobs and invests in renewable energy technologies, retrofitting homes, improving public transport, subsidising electric vehicles, and providing apprenticeships.
Steve Double
Con
St Ives
Cornwall is ready to play an active part in the green industrial revolution, with a proud history of innovation and being at the forefront of technological advances. He emphasised the importance of protecting our oceans and seas, advocating for urgent action on plastic waste through a deposit return scheme for single-use plastic bottles and addressing sewage discharge into our seas. Additionally, he called for better coastal protection against climate change impacts.
Wera Hobhouse
Lib Dem
Bath
She criticised the Government's lack of action on climate emergency and urged for urgent measures to tackle it. She proposed ambitious targets such as no sales of new petrol or diesel cars from 2030, massive investment in renewable energy, stopping fossil fuel extraction and subsidies, and an extensive programme of insulating homes to high energy efficiency standards.
Clive Lewis
Lab
Norwich South
It is a pleasure to follow the hon. Member for Bolsover. I think everyone on the Labour Benches would thank him for his kind words about Dennis Skinner, who was more than just an MP to us; he was a link to a period when people had dignity at work and felt respected in what they did, and when we had real communities that were strengthened by the work and the ethos that people had as part of their community. On the idea of a statue, I cannot speak for Dennis.
I thank my friend for allowing me to intervene. I speak as a friend of Dennis Skinner. The lesson for everyone new coming into this place is to realise that there is a difference between politics and friendship. Friendship stretches across the House; politics may differ, but friendship is firm.
Clive Lewis
Lab
Norwich South
The climate emergency is urgent, with severe impacts across Australia and globally. The UK must take immediate action to reduce CO2 emissions by 20% annually, ban new buildings connected to the gas grid, reinstate zero-carbon homes standards, implement a national fuel poverty programme, raise tree planting targets to 3 billion within a decade, invest in flood prevention programmes, and build resilience into infrastructure. The UK must lead at COP26 instead of merely hosting it; however, current government measures fall short of these requirements.
Derek Thomas
Con
Cornwall North
Supports the green industrial revolution and the £22 billion annual investment in green technologies. Emphasises the need for rail infrastructure improvements alongside support for airlines like Flybe, to provide consumers with cleaner travel options. Advocates for modern building practices such as ground screws and recycled materials to reduce carbon emissions from construction. Recommends a scrappage scheme for diesel cars to benefit low-income families, promote electric vehicles, improve air quality, and reduce running costs.
Warrington North
Thanked Madam Deputy Speaker for the opportunity to address the House for the first time and expressed wishes of success to Mr Speaker. Emphasised her solemn duty towards constituents in light of environmental catastrophe, highlighting Warrington Borough Council's declaration of a climate emergency. Advocated for a green industrial revolution with an emphasis on hydrogen gas and tidal power. Mentioned her work on a just transition with the GMB trade union before entering Parliament. Discussed northern towns' current status and the importance of local economy, infrastructure development, and addressing poverty. Highlighted Warrington's manufacturing industry and its future prospects based on energy security and decarbonisation needs. Touched upon constituency boundaries and local landmarks like Warrington Wolves’ stadium and Gulliver’s World theme park. Ended by expressing pride in representing a resilient community.
Alex Sobel
Lab Co-op
Leeds Central
There is a climate gap between our rhetoric and action in this country. The Queen’s Speech does little, if anything, to fill that gap. I urge the Government to lift the ban on onshore wind in England, move forward the date for the ban on combustion engine vehicles, and address infrastructure improvements such as light rail or metro systems.
Gavin Newlands
SNP
Paisley and Renfrewshire North
I will focus my remarks on transport in relation to the green industrial revolution. I look forward to working closely with the shadow Secretary of State, the hon. Member for Middlesbrough, and the Opposition Front-Bench team. I formally congratulate new Members who have made maiden speeches today. The UK Government’s failed green deal scheme must be addressed, and our constituents defrauded by companies like HELMS should be fully compensated.
David Linden
SNP
Aberdeen South
I pay tribute to the work being done in the all-party parliamentary group. I urge the Government through my hon. Friend that it would be helpful if the Department for Energy, Business and Industrial Strategy had a more adequate number of staff to work through the backlog of people who are trying to contact BEIS to deal with issues related to the green deal.
Gavin Newlands
SNP
Paisley and Renfrew North
He seeks a meeting with the new Minister to discuss the assistance of BEIS in the Green Deal Finance Company. He praises Scotland's long-term vision for renewable energy and carbon-neutral transport, mentioning specific projects like the Glasgow city region metro project which is part of a green industrial revolution. Newlands criticises UK Government paralysis in electrification projects and urges them to learn from Scotland.
Andy McDonald
Lab
Middlesbrough and Thornaby East
He corrects the term used by Gavin Newlands, suggesting 'insular' rather than 'island', but does not provide a full contribution beyond this correction.
Olivia Blake
Lab
Sheffield Hallam
Described the constituency's rich history of industry and innovation, highlighting current issues such as austerity measures, climate change impacts, and educational underfunding. Emphasised support for a Green New Deal to address environmental challenges and economic inequalities.
Matt Western
Lab
Warwick and Leamington
Welcomed the debate, congratulated new members, and discussed the urgency of addressing climate change. He cited recent extreme weather events around the world, highlighting reports on ocean heating as evidence of accelerating warming trends. Emphasised the need for urgent action from both government and financial sectors, citing statements by Mark Carney and Larry Fink. Criticised the lack of ambition in the Queen's Speech regarding energy generation and infrastructure, mentioning opportunities like tidal lagoons and wind farms that are underutilized or banned outright. Advocated for better standards in house building, more investment in electric vehicles and charging points, and incentives for switching to eco-friendly modes of transport such as bicycles. Concluded by urging the adoption of 'environmental debt' terminology and full environmental audits on government policies.
Mike Hill
Lab
Hartlepool
Thanked his constituents for returning him to the House and mentioned a visit by the Secretary of State for Transport to Hartlepool. He highlighted issues with local rail services, suggesting improvements and public ownership of buses. He expressed dissatisfaction over the loss of A&E facilities in Hartlepool ten years ago and called on the Secretary of State for Health to address this issue. Hill emphasised the urgency of addressing climate change and the potential of coastal communities like Hartlepool to benefit from green industrial revolution initiatives, including carbon capture and storage, hydrogen power, and nuclear energy provision.
Deidre Brock
SNP
Edinburgh North and Leith
Paid tribute to maiden speakers and criticised the UK Government's climate change targets as too distant in time. She highlighted recent severe bushfires in Australia, Siberian forest fires, and fires threatening rainforests in the Amazon. Emphasised that 30 years ago Margaret Thatcher called for fast action on emissions control but current policies have failed to deliver. Criticised lack of commitment from the Government regarding electric vehicle technology investment, rail freight capacity, VAT rating on renewable energy, and insulation improvements. Also pointed out failures related to air quality improvement as per the Clean Air Act 1956 and EU's ambient air quality directive.
Alan Brown
SNP
Clydebank and Carrickfergus
Supported his colleague, Deidre Brock, by highlighting concerns over the Government’s inaction on air pollution despite losing court cases to ClientEarth. Stated that 40,000 premature deaths annually are due to air pollution, stressing the seriousness of the issue and the need for strict adherence to EU standards.
Deidre Brock
SNP
Central Ayrshire
Agreed with her hon. Friend about the Government’s failure to act and appreciated his contribution.
Andy McDonald
Lab
Middlesbrough and Thornaby East
Commended maiden speeches, criticised the government for ignoring climate change crisis in their election campaign, pointed out failures in transport policies and emphasised the need for a green industrial revolution to tackle both economic stagnation and environmental issues.
Alex Sobel
Lab Co-op
Leeds Central
Asked Andy McDonald whether it is time for the government to support Optare and ensure electric buses are deployed across the country.
Andy McDonald
Lab
Middlesbrough and Thornaby East
Welcomed the Government's action regarding Flybe, but questioned why one corporate entity was preferred over another.
Grant Shapps
Con
Emphasised the importance of connecting communities with aviation and highlighted 2,400 jobs at stake. Stressed the strategic national interest in supporting Flybe's operations on routes not covered by other airlines or rail connections. Discussed efforts towards greener aviation through electric planes and hybrid fuels. Pledged to encourage research into electric aircraft such as the Britten Norman conversion project at Cranfield University.
Vicky Ford
Con
Encouraged airlines like Flybe to offer consumers carbon offsetting options, reflecting on her involvement with Cranfield University’s aviation facility development over a decade ago.
Caroline Lucas
Green
Asked the Secretary of State to address the issue that growing demand for flights outweighs improvements in fuel efficiency. Suggested demand needs to be constrained until electric planes become viable, questioning the effectiveness of APD.
Wera Hobhouse
Lib Dem
Requested further clarification or intervention from the Secretary of State on a topic not detailed in the provided transcript.
Interrupted to seek further speech opportunities, but specific contributions are not detailed in the given transcript.
Grant Shapps
Con
Welwyn Hatfield
The hon. Member supports the government's green initiatives, including £500 million for a gigafactory and £400,000 to support electric vehicle charging infrastructure. He also mentions that one in five electric cars sold in Europe last year were made in the UK. The Government aims to increase the number of plug-in chargers and make electric car charging faster and more accessible. Additionally, they plan to double their contribution to climate action to £11.6 billion between 2021 and 2025. The environment Bill will include measures for air quality improvement, habitat restoration, biodiversity increase, waste reduction, and water resource management with legally binding long-term targets of at least 15 years duration.
Government Response
The hon. Gentleman will be very aware that there is a difference between the baseload and the variability of renewables. Acknowledged contributions, emphasised areas of agreement on decarbonising the economy by 2050, praised the debate as useful, and touched briefly on Flybe’s rescue announcement. Discussed the importance of green growth and aviation, emphasising progress on reducing carbon emissions despite economic growth. Addressed concerns about transitioning car manufacturing to electric vehicles and highlighted measures such as ratifying the Paris agreement and fostering a £45 billion green industry. The environment Bill will include measures for air quality improvement, habitat restoration, biodiversity increase, waste reduction, and water resource management with legally binding long-term targets of at least 15 years duration. The Government is also working actively with local authorities to accelerate the programme as quickly as possible.
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