← Back to Westminster Hall Debates

Decarbonising Aviation — [Sir Gary Streeter in the Chair]

21 September 2021

Lead MP

Fleur Anderson
Putney
Lab

Responding Minister

Robert Courts

Tags

TaxationTransportClimate
Word Count: 14056
Other Contributors: 11

At a Glance

Fleur Anderson raised concerns about decarbonising aviation — [sir gary streeter in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

Ms Anderson asked the Minister to provide a plan B if technological breakthroughs do not materialise as expected. She also questioned why the Department for Transport refuses to disincentivise frequent business travel by plane and make train journeys easier, quicker and cheaper than short flights.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Putney
Opened the debate
Ms Anderson expressed concern about the lack of concrete policy measures to decarbonise aviation. She highlighted that sustainable aviation fuel production is still less than 1% of overall jet fuel supply, despite being considered a solution for decarbonisation. Additionally, she pointed out that expanding Heathrow would result in significant additional carbon emissions and non-CO2 impacts on the climate.

Government Response

Robert Courts
Government Response
The Government are committed to decarbonising aviation through a multi-faceted approach including increasing efficiency in existing systems, developing sustainable aviation fuels, accelerating zero emission flight technology, establishing carbon markets, and influencing consumer choices. The Jet Zero Council is driving the delivery of new technologies with industry and senior leaders. Eight projects have been shortlisted for £15 million funding under the 'Green Fuels, Green Skies' competition to support innovative SAF production technologies. The Government are also exploring synthetic fuels as part of the technological mix.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

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.