Climate Change International Co-operation and the Global South 2021-04-20
2021-04-20
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The UK is preparing to host the COP26 climate conference. The MP inquires about diplomatic efforts with global south partners.
What diplomatic steps his Department is taking ahead of COP26 to work with partners in the global south to tackle climate change?
As COP hosts, we encourage all countries to make a step change in ambition. The success of COP26 is a top priority for the Government and the FCDO this year. It is prioritised by Ministers and it is prioritised across our diplomatic network.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specific diplomatic actions were not detailed, only general priorities mentioned
Under Review
Working On This
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Climate change impacts minority rights, especially for marginalised groups in India. The MP asks about embedding positive climate outcomes for these groups in future UK-India trade discussions.
Can the Minister advise on how the UK Government intends to embed positive climate change outcomes not just for UK companies and citizens but also for those most marginalised due to climate change in future trade talks with India?
The hon. Gentleman is right to highlight marginal groups, specifically in India but also globally. We have pledged to work with young people, faith leaders, women and indigenous people to amplify the voices of the most marginalised and will do that not only through the narrow lens of climate change but also through our overall relationship with other countries, including trade policy.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specific plans for embedding positive outcomes were not detailed
Under Review
Looking At This
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
▸
Context
The need to sustainably produce more food by 2050 due to population growth is a major challenge for reducing carbon emissions. The MP wants assurance that this issue will be addressed.
Will the Minister reassure me that global food security issues, which are crucial in tackling climate change, will remain a priority in Britain's global climate and development strategies?
I can certainly reassure my hon. Friend. In fact, the global transition to sustainable agriculture, and specifically key land use, is a key focus of our COP26 nature campaign, and we are seeking to make further international progress towards climate resilience and sustainable agriculture through the transition to sustainable agriculture dialogues.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The MP has conducted a survey to understand environmental concerns among constituents. The MP asks about the inclusion of all parties in the global effort against climate change.
What discussions have you had with international partners to ensure that everyone is included in the global effort to tackle climate change?
My hon. Friend is a dynamo on climate change in his constituency, and we in our own modest way hope to be dynamos at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. We will encourage climate ambition in this critical year of COP; through our presidency we will make an inclusive COP, listening to all parties.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specific discussion details were not provided
Under Review
Looking At This
Response accuracy
Q5
Direct Answer
▸
Context
UK officials stated that greater climate action is needed. However, the UK's overseas spending cuts are raising concerns about their impact on developing economies' ability to address climate change.
What assessment has been made regarding the impact of UK's budget cuts for development aid committed to sustainable development goals, particularly those related to tackling climate change?
As the hon. Lady can imagine, this is a very important issue, and I have asked the question internally within the Department and can assure her that we are doubling our international climate finance to £11.6 billion over the next five years and have committed to aligning all official development assistance with the Paris agreement.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q6
Direct Answer
▸
Context
The wealthiest need to reduce carbon emissions significantly. The MP asks for a commitment that public funds will not support the fossil fuel industry, including in development aid.
Will the Minister commit to ensuring that no UK public funds are used to fund or subsidise the fossil fuel industry, including through development aid?
Certainly everybody, especially those emitting the most, needs to make those reductions. We are no longer investing in fossil fuels. Various organisations clearly have a historical book of fossil fuel investment that can be managed down over time.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q7
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The UK's decision to cut its aid budget is seen as weakening the ability to address global challenges like climate change, poverty, and health. The MP requests a statement on spending plans for 2021.
Will the Foreign Secretary face up to his decision on cuts to the aid budget, make a statement to the House on spending plans for 2021, and put these cuts to a vote?
The Foreign Secretary is attending the International Development Committee on Thursday, which will allow for a forensic examination of everything that he says, but we are here at the Dispatch Box answering questions. I myself am answering seven or eight questions. Far from running away, we are engaging in this debate.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Commitment to making a statement was not clear
Running Away
Not Directly Addressing The Request
Response accuracy