UK’s Green Industries Export Opportunities 2022-06-16
2022-06-16
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The UK government has launched initiatives to support the green sector, including a clean growth programme during COP26.
What steps have been taken by the Department to increase export opportunities for the UK's green industries? The Government has made significant commitments but there is always more that can be done. Are additional new initiatives planned beyond those outlined?
The government will continue to liberalise green trade through free trade agreements, lead outward-bound visits, and seek opportunities with partner countries. We focus on sectors such as solar power, wind power, renewables, and smart cities where the UK leads.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide any new specific initiatives beyond those already mentioned
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Minister is planning a trip to Scotland soon to discuss green energy opportunities.
What discussions has the Minister had with the Scottish Government about the potential for Scotland's green energy industries such as offshore wind and hydrogen, and their role in a UK trade strategy?
I am planning to visit Scotland soon to discuss these matters. The Department works closely with the Scottish Government, as evidenced by recent visits such as a delegation of Azerbaijanis to Aberdeen.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide details on specific discussions beyond confirming future plans
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
ISDS provisions in the ECT allow fossil fuel companies to sue governments attempting to decarbonise.
Will the Government support efforts to remove protections for fossil fuel companies in the Energy Charter Treaty, which threaten green industries and renewable projects?
The UK has never lost a dispute under these provisions. If specific issues are raised, they can be addressed; barriers related to ISDS have not been an issue when discussing with partner countries.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to supporting removal of protections for fossil fuels in ECT
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Scottish clean hydrogen has the potential to generate £25 billion GVA and create tens of thousands of jobs by 2045.
What discussions have there been about reversing the betrayal of the carbon capture scheme at Peterhead in order to capitalise on export potential for Scottish clean hydrogen?
If this is such an important issue, I urge the Scottish Government to discuss it with their Minister for Energy. I look forward to our future conversation.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address any specific discussions about reversing carbon capture scheme funding cut
Urged Discussion Elsewhere
Response accuracy