House of Commons · Westminster Hall
07 July 2025 · 11 other contributors · 9,567 words
Opened by Jacob Collier Lab Burton and Uttoxeter
Responding minister: Michael Shanks
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Jacob Collier raised concerns about fossil fuel advertising and sponsorship in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
Collier questioned whether Parliament should act now to ban fossil fuel advertising and sponsorship, similar to how tobacco ads were banned despite cigarettes not becoming healthier.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The petition had received 110,519 signatures. Jacob Collier expressed concern about the role of fossil fuel companies in advertising and sponsoring content, events, and spaces across the UK, arguing that it influences public discourse and can be misleading due to greenwashing tactics. He highlighted issues such as the Advertising Standards Authority's limitations in dealing with rapid changes in advertising.
Khan agreed with Collier, stressing the need for urgent action due to air pollution caused by burning fossil fuels, which leads to an estimated 43,000 premature deaths annually in the UK.
Asks if Jacob Collier has noted the call from the UN Secretary-General for banning fossil fuel advertising to protect public health and address climate change.
Noted the value of oil and gas to north-east Scotland communities, the Exchequer, and energy security. Acknowledged the impact of burning fossil fuels on climate change but argued that shutting down UK's industry or stopping it from advertising would not reduce carbon emissions as liquefied natural gas shipped in from abroad emits more. Argued that a ban on fossil fuel ads would not reduce demand for oil and gas, as they are essential for various aspects of modern life.
Supports the petition demanding a ban on fossil fuel advertising, highlighting grassroots efforts by Adblock Bristol and Adfree Cities in opposing high-carbon product advertisements and advocating for national regulation. Questioned the use of 'informed choice' to defend fossil fuel advertising, referencing its past use by tobacco companies in opposing bans on their products.
Discussed the significant impact of emissions on public health, emphasizing the need for action beyond just environmental concerns.
Savage supported the call for a ban on fossil fuel adverts and highlighted her Climate and Nature Bill, arguing that it is essential to back a science-led approach to address the climate crisis. She noted that advertising falsely gives the impression that business as usual is sustainable.
Brings a dual perspective as an MP and GP, highlighting the public health concerns associated with air pollution caused by burning fossil fuels. Supports the ban for reducing consumption and promoting public health.
Thanked organisations such as the Advertising Standards Authority, The Globe Foundation, Badvertising, Adfree Cities and Chris Packham for their support in preparing his opening remarks. He mentioned that Chris Packham hopes this is just the start of applying pressure.
Discusses the importance of acknowledging greenwashing and the need for clear regulations. Questions the impact of banning fossil fuel advertising on sports sponsorship and funding.
Argued against the petition, stating that focusing only on advertising ignores the importance of sponsorship for many organisations.
Asked when the shadow Minister would address the petition's point about advertising. Asked the Minister to address the question of sponsorship and highlighted the lack of choice people have when their favourite sports teams or galleries are sponsored by fossil fuel companies.
Government Response
Michael ShanksThe Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero
Acknowledged the strength of feeling on climate change issues but stated that the Government is committed to tackling climate change through a clean energy transition rather than banning fossil fuel advertising, emphasizing the need for informed choices.