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Lithium: Critical Minerals Supply — [Sir Gary Streeter in the Chair]
23 April 2024
Lead MP
Steve Double
St Austell and Newquay
Con
Responding Minister
Jake Berry
Tags
TransportNorthern IrelandBusiness & Trade
Word Count: 10860
Other Contributors: 5
At a Glance
Steve Double raised concerns about lithium: critical minerals supply — [sir gary streeter in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
I ask the Government to support Cornish Lithium and Imerys British Lithium by improving regulation clarity, preparing for carbon intensity standards, and addressing regulatory uncertainty on chemical classifications. I also invite the Minister to visit Cornwall to see these opportunities firsthand.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
I am concerned about the global supply of lithium and other critical minerals, which are crucial for modern technologies including electric vehicles. The UK's demand will significantly increase in coming years, but current high-grade deposits are primarily found in four countries: Argentina, Australia, Chile, and China. There is a 55% gap between supply and demand by 2030 despite increasing global production. I also worry about the ethical and environmental standards of international extraction practices, making it imperative to secure domestic supplies. Cornwall has substantial lithium deposits that can meet half of UK car manufacturers' needs, but regulatory challenges exist.
Truro and Falmouth
Championed the critical minerals industry in Cornwall, highlighting the importance of lithium and tin extraction for energy security. Discussed challenges such as lengthy planning processes and high processing costs. Emphasised the environmental benefits and economic opportunities of mining revival. Highlighted international efforts to build relationships among producer nations and discussed initiatives like research on recycling used batteries.
Graham Stringer
Lab
Blackley and Middleton South
In an intervention, Graham Stringer agreed that high energy costs hinder the use of natural resources and criticised the planning regime for extraction difficulties. He suggested a belief within the Government that international trade can secure critical minerals, despite China's monopolistic behaviour in the market.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Jim Shannon emphasised the importance of Northern Ireland playing a role in modernising technology and contributing to the supply of lithium. He highlighted that while there is no immediate access to lithium for extraction, there are opportunities for smaller businesses specialising in lithium batteries. Shannon questioned the Minister on discussions with the Department for the Economy to advance technology for businesses in Northern Ireland and requested clarity on geological prospectivity areas in Northern Ireland. Asked what could be done to increase technological advances in Northern Ireland, and mentioned potential lithium deposits in Fermanagh and Tyrone that were not originally known.
Richard Thomson
SNP
Aberdeen North
Richard Thomson highlighted the importance of critical raw materials beyond lithium, noting their economic and geopolitical significance. He mentioned significant deposits in various UK regions including Aberdeenshire, Cornwall, Wales, Cumbria, and Scotland. Thomson pointed out that 18 minerals are on the CRM list with another six at elevated risk due to their origin. The demand for critical minerals is expected to surge by four times by 2040, particularly lithium by 90%, nickel and cobalt by 60-70%, and copper and rare earth metals by 40%. He emphasised the need for sustainable extraction practices and a circular economy to mitigate environmental impacts.
Sarah Jones
Lab
Croydon West
The Labour Party agrees that the Government's approach to critical minerals is disjointed and needs improvement. They emphasize the importance of a robust industrial strategy, midstream capacity development, and international collaboration with allies.
Government Response
Jake Berry
Government Response
The Minister acknowledged the need to ensure resilient domestic supply chains for critical minerals, highlighting the Government's published strategy. He discussed measures like supporting UK producers and international collaboration with allies. The minister also committed to visiting Northern Ireland to explore opportunities for business support in lithium and minerals.
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Assessment & feedback
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.