Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Carbon Tariffs

Thursday 8 October 2020 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Matt Western asked about discussions on carbon tariffs to reduce emissions from international trade.
  • The Minister highlighted Britain's rapid reduction in emissions and its commitment to net zero emissions legislation.
  • The Minister assured that the Department recognises the role trade and tariffs can play in reducing global carbon emissions.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Matt Western Lab Warwick and Leamington
Climate Business & Trade
Context

The MP is concerned about the potential merits of using carbon tariffs to address emissions associated with international trade.

Question

What discussions has she had with the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy on the potential merits of using carbon tariffs to reduce emissions associated with international trade?

Answer from Ranil Jayawardena

Britain has reduced emissions faster than any other G7 nation since 1990; and we were the first major economy to legislate for net zero emissions, too. This people's Government will make sure the British people benefit from being at the forefront of clean wind energy. We will spend £160 million on port and factory upgrades to create jobs, build turbines and increase our offshore wind capacity, which is already the biggest in the world. The hon. Gentleman can be sure that we will continue to push for ambitious international action to protect the environment, including through our trade agenda.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The potential merits of using carbon tariffs were not addressed specifically; instead, general commitments on emissions reduction and clean energy investments were provided.

How: Push For Ambitious International Action To Protect The Environment

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Q2 Matt Western Lab Warwick and Leamington
Climate Business & Trade
Context

The MP is questioning whether the Government's agreements with Japan and potential deals with the US include provisions for carbon-intensive industries relocating to countries with lower emissions standards.

Question

Contrary to points made by certain Ministers, many on this side of the House speak up for businesses. Carbon border taxes are an important measure not just for the environment but also for preventing carbon-intensive industries from relocating. Can the Minister assure us that there is nothing in the deal with Japan or any deals being struck with the US that prevent these issues?

Answer from Ranil Jayawardena

My Department recognises the role that trade and tariffs can play in reducing global carbon emissions. We are clear that trade does not have to come at the expense of the environment, but growing trade is important for better jobs, higher wages, greater choice and lower prices.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specifics on provisions related to carbon-intensive industries in deals with Japan or potential US deals were not addressed; instead, general statements about the role of trade and tariffs in reducing global emissions were provided.

How: Recognises The Role That Trade And Tariffs Can Play In Reducing Global Carbon Emissions

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