Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

<-- Back to proposed bills

UK withdrawal from the Energy Charter Treaty

22 February 2024

Proposing MP
Graham Stuart Con
Beverley and Holderness
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Energy Security and Net Zero
View on Parliament.uk -->

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The UK is withdrawing from the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT) due to its failure to modernise and align with current energy priorities.

Action Requested

The Government has initiated the process of withdrawing from the ECT, requiring a one-year notification period. The UK will join several European countries in leaving the treaty while maintaining an attractive investment climate for energy sector projects.

Key Facts

  • The UK announced its withdrawal on 1 September 2023 after reviewing Treaty membership.
  • £23 billion was invested in UK low-carbon sectors in 2022.
  • The modernised Treaty was not adopted by November 2023, leading to the review conclusion.
  • The ECT was signed in 1994 to facilitate investment in fossil fuels post-Soviet Union break-up.
  • Withdrawal will take effect after a one-year notification period.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy