Andrew Bowie Portrait

Andrew Bowie

Conservative - West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine

3,441 (7.0%) majority - 2024 General Election

First elected: 8th June 2017

Shadow Minister (Energy Security and Net Zero)

(since July 2024)

Shadow Secretary of State for Scotland

(since November 2024)

Shadow Minister (Veterans)
8th Jul 2024 - 5th Nov 2024
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
7th Feb 2023 - 5th Jul 2024
Energy Bill [HL]
17th May 2023 - 29th Jun 2023
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for International Trade)
28th Oct 2022 - 7th Feb 2023
Scottish Affairs Committee
4th May 2020 - 8th Nov 2022
Defence Committee
25th Oct 2022 - 8th Nov 2022
Trade (Australia and New Zealand) Bill
7th Sep 2022 - 18th Oct 2022
Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill
22nd Jun 2022 - 7th Jul 2022
Animal Welfare (Sentience) Bill [HL]
9th Feb 2022 - 10th Feb 2022
Subsidy Control Bill
20th Oct 2021 - 18th Nov 2021
Work and Pensions Committee
16th Oct 2017 - 4th Jun 2018


Division Voting information

During the current Parliament, Andrew Bowie has voted in 49 divisions, and never against the majority of their Party.
View All Andrew Bowie Division Votes

Debates during the 2024 Parliament

Speeches made during Parliamentary debates are recorded in Hansard. For ease of browsing we have grouped debates into individual, departmental and legislative categories.

Sparring Partners
Michael Shanks (Labour)
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
(33 debate interactions)
Stephen Flynn (Scottish National Party)
SNP Westminster Leader
(11 debate interactions)
Torcuil Crichton (Labour)
(8 debate interactions)
View All Sparring Partners
Department Debates
Department for Energy Security & Net Zero
(102 debate contributions)
Ministry of Defence
(3 debate contributions)
Scotland Office
(3 debate contributions)
HM Treasury
(1 debate contributions)
View All Department Debates
Legislation Debates
Great British Energy Bill 2024-26
(20,275 words contributed)
View All Legislation Debates
View all Andrew Bowie's debates

West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine Petitions

e-Petitions are administered by Parliament and allow members of the public to express support for a particular issue.

If an e-petition reaches 10,000 signatures the Government will issue a written response.

If an e-petition reaches 100,000 signatures the petition becomes eligible for a Parliamentary debate (usually Monday 4.30pm in Westminster Hall).

Petitions with highest West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine signature proportion
Petitions with most West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine signatures
Andrew Bowie has not participated in any petition debates

Latest EDMs signed by Andrew Bowie

2nd September 2024
Andrew Bowie signed this EDM on Monday 2nd September 2024

Social Security

Tabled by: Rishi Sunak (Conservative - Richmond and Northallerton)
That an humble Address be presented to His Majesty, praying that the Social Fund Winter Fuel Payment Regulations 2024 (S.I., 2024, No. 869), dated 22 August 2024, a copy of which was laid before this House on 22 August 2024, be annulled.
81 signatures
(Most recent: 10 Sep 2024)
Signatures by party:
Conservative: 75
Independent: 3
Democratic Unionist Party: 2
Scottish National Party: 1
23rd May 2018
Andrew Bowie signed this EDM as a sponsor on Wednesday 23rd May 2018

PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS IN SCOTLAND

Tabled by: Bill Grant (Conservative - Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock)
That this House welcomes the launch of a new campaign by Prostate Cancer UK and bookmaker William Hill to raise awareness about prostate cancer in Scotland; understands that prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men and kills one man every 45 minutes in the UK; notes that over …
15 signatures
(Most recent: 14 Jun 2018)
Signatures by party:
Conservative: 7
Scottish National Party: 4
Labour: 2
Democratic Unionist Party: 1
Independent: 1
View All Andrew Bowie's signed Early Day Motions

Commons initiatives

These initiatives were driven by Andrew Bowie, and are more likely to reflect personal policy preferences.

MPs who are act as Ministers or Shadow Ministers are generally restricted from performing Commons initiatives other than Urgent Questions.


Andrew Bowie has not been granted any Urgent Questions

Andrew Bowie has not been granted any Adjournment Debates

Andrew Bowie has not introduced any legislation before Parliament


Latest 50 Written Questions

(View all written questions)
Written Questions can be tabled by MPs and Lords to request specific information information on the work, policy and activities of a Government Department
23rd Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps his Department is taking to support the Scotch whisky industry.

DBT leads a whole of Government effort, working with devolved governments and the sector to support this important industry, which exported £5.6bn of Scotch Whisky worldwide in 2023. We boost exports by leveraging trade agreements and removing barriers. For example, in August we announced the recognition of the Scotch Whisky Geographic Indicator in Brazil, valued at £25m over five years. We will continue to spotlight Scotch Whisky at global trade shows in key markets, including a spirits trade mission to India in November. The Export Academy food and drink programme, launched in October, offers dedicated upskilling to both emerging and experienced distilleries.

Gareth Thomas
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)
25th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what recent assessment his Department has made of the value of the Scotch whisky industry to the economy.

According to research published by the Scotch Whisky Association, the Scotch Whisky industry contributed £7.1 billion to the UK economy in 2022, supporting 66,000 jobs across the UK. Scotch Whisky is also the UK’s leading food and drink export, with exports valued at £5.6 billion in 2023. My department continues to support this economically vital industry by opening new markets, tackling trade barriers and challenging unfair trade practices around the world to maximise international opportunities.

Gareth Thomas
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)
25th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps he plans to take to help increase exports from companies in the north east of Scotland.

My department continues to work with Scottish Government and Scottish Development International to boost exports across Scotland. We specifically work with Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce, North east and Highlands and Islands Enterprise to support export growth from the north east.

This Government recognises that the north east is well placed to play a key role in sectors including energy and food and drink. DBT Scotland has dedicated specialists covering these areas in addition to technology, finance and professional business services, and life sciences to take advantage of the DBT offer and increase exports from the north east of Scotland. In addition, the UK Wide Export Champions programme is uniquely operated in Scotland as a mutually appointed partnership with Scottish Development International and the Scottish Government.

Gareth Thomas
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)
4th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of the judgement in UKSC 2022/0064 on the remaining (a) oil and (b) gas licence applications made under the 33rd licensing round.

The Supreme Court's Finch judgment relates to Environmental Impact Assessments associated with applications for development consent for offshore oil and gas projects that have already secured a licence. On October 30th the Government launched a consultation on guidance that will help developers understand how to account for the Court judgment when undertaking Environmental Impact Assessments associated with those consent applications. The consultation will close on January 8th and the Government aims to have the finalised guidance in place in the Spring.

The North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) has paused considering any further licences from the 33rd round pending the finalisation of the Government’s consultation process into the future of licensing.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
4th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to incorporate the judgement in UKSC 2022/0064 into the decision-making process for oil and gas licences.

The Supreme Court's Finch judgment relates to Environmental Impact Assessments associated with applications for development consent for offshore oil and gas projects that have already secured a licence. On 30 October the Government launched a consultation on guidance that will help developers understand how to account for the Court judgment when undertaking Environmental Impact Assessments associated with those consent applications. The consultation will close on 8 January and the Government aims to have the finalised guidance in place in the Spring.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
4th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, when his Department expects the North Sea Transition Authority to publish decisions on the remaining (a) oil and (b) gas licence applications made under the 33rd licensing round.

The North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) has paused considering any further licences from the 33rd round pending the finalisation of the Governments consultation process into the future of licensing.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
4th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how many (a) oil and (b) gas licence applications made under the 33rd licensing round are yet to be determined.

The North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) has paused considering any further licences from the 33rd round pending the finalisation of the Governments consultation process into the future of licensing.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
4th Nov 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what estimate his Department has made of the number of pending (a) oil and (b) gas licence applications delayed due to the judgement in UKSC 2022/0064.

The Government does not expect the Finch judgement to delay licence applications because it relates to Environmental Impact Assessments associated with applications for development consent for offshore oil and gas projects that have already secured a licence.

The Government will consult later this year on the implementation of our manifesto position not to issue new oil and gas licences to explore new fields.

The North Sea Transition Authority has paused considering any further licences from the 33rd round pending the finalisation of the Government’s consultation process into the future of licensing.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
18th Oct 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department holds information on the potential impact of electromagnetic fields from high-voltage electricity pylons on public health.

The National Policy Statement for electricity networks notes that all overhead power lines produce electromagnetic fields (EMF), and that Government policy is that exposure of the public to EMF from 275kV and 400kV lines should be limited to low levels in compliance with International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection guidelines (1998). Potential health effects associated with long-term low-level exposure to EMF have been extensively studied over recent decades and detrimental effects have not been found.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
12th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will make an estimate of the quantity and proportion of energy infrastructure that will be required to meet his (a) onshore and (b) offshore power targets that will be sourced from Chinese companies.

This Government will take a consistent, long term and strategic approach to managing the UK’s relations with China. We will co-operate where we can, compete where we have different interests, and challenge where we must. Alongside efforts to de-risk our supply chains, we will therefore also continue to work with our international partners to manage the continued implications of overreliance on any one actor.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
12th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department is taking steps to streamline regulatory approval processes for new nuclear projects.

The UK has an enabling, robust and rigorous energy regulatory regime. The Government is taking steps towards speeding up and streamlining the planning process and will continue to work with the regulators to understand the potential for additional streamlining or removing of duplication from the regulation of energy projects including new nuclear projects. Evidence received from the Alternative Routes to Market for New Nuclear Projects consultation will allow us to further explore how the existing nuclear regulatory framework can accommodate new technologies and new use-cases.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
12th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking to ensure that the UK has the (a) skills and (b) workforce to support the expansion of nuclear energy as part of the net-zero transition.

The Government is committed to ensuring that the UK nuclear industry has the necessary skills needed to deliver our nuclear ambitions.

Recognising the need for urgent action, the nuclear sector across civil and defence are responding collaboratively to deliver sustained long-term action that will develop a robust nuclear skills base, including through the delivery of the National Nuclear Strategic Plan for Skills.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
12th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking to support (a) international climate commitments and (b) other global nuclear energy initiatives.

The Government is committed to restoring the UK’s global climate leadership, building on its mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower. We will work with countries to deliver on the Global Stocktake agreed at COP28. We intend to announce our own ambitious Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for 2035 at COP29, accelerate action through initiatives such as the Global Clean Power Alliance and push for an ambitious new global climate finance goal at COP29. The UK actively supports the safe and secure use of nuclear energy through our work at the International Atomic Energy Agency, Nuclear Energy Agency and International Energy Agency.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
12th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will make an estimate of the quantity and proportion of energy infrastructure that will be required to meet his solar power targets that will be sourced from Chinese companies.

Solar power is a mature technology with well-established and competitive global supply chains, with industrial-scale solar panel manufacturing mainly concentrated in Asia, the US and EU.

We have relaunched the Solar Taskforce which will be focusing on identifying and taking forward the actions needed to develop resilient, sustainable and innovative solar supply chains, to support our ambition of radically increasing the UKs solar power capacity by 2030.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
12th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of deploying Small Modular Reactors on the Government's net-zero targets.

The government is clear that new nuclear power stations, such as Hinkley Point C, Sizewell C, and small modular reactors (SMRs), will play an important role in helping the UK achieve energy security and clean power while securing thousands of good, skilled jobs. Great British Nuclear (GBN), the government’s expert nuclear delivery body, is running an SMR technology selection process procurement. In September 2024, GBN concluded the initial tender phase of the procurement and down-selected to four companies. In the next stage of the process, bidders will be invited to enter negotiations with GBN.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
12th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of trends in the level of reliance on China-owned companies for the supply of energy infrastructure on national security.

The Government will carry out an audit of the UK’s relationship with China as a bilateral and global actor, to improve our ability to understand and respond to the challenges and opportunities China poses.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
10th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking to support the development of fusion technology.

Fusion supports the Government’s missions to kickstart economic growth and make Britain a clean energy superpower. The commercial process for the STEP powerplant programme is in train, we are investing in cutting-edge research programmes and facilities, and are implementing the UK’s proportionate regulatory framework, strengthening the UK’s role as the global hub for fusion innovation. Together, this will support investment and job creation and help deliver a thriving UK fusion industry.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
10th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what estimate he has made of the number of kilometres of new energy transmission lines that will be required to decarbonise the grid by 2030.

The Secretary of State and Head of Mission Control wrote to the Electricity System Operator (ESO) on 23rd August to formally commission advice regarding the key requirements for the Government to meet its clean power commitment by 2030. This includes the transmission network.

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/66cda5c1e39a8536eac0532e/sos-chris-stark-letter-clean-power-2030.pdf

More detail will be provided in the autumn.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
10th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what estimate he has made of the quantity of copper that will be required to provide 60 gigawatts of offshore wind power by 2030.

Significant infrastructure investment is required to meet the Government’s mission for clean power by 2030 and accelerate to net zero. The equipment, such as cables and transformers, to enable transformation of the grid will be reliant on copper and its associated supply chain. We also recognise the vital role of copper in making wind power possible.

The Critical Minerals Intelligence Centre, sponsored by the Department for Business and Trade and delivered by the British Geological Survey, is undertaking studies to forecast the UK’s demand for critical minerals including copper in our clean energy technologies and energy infrastructure. They will be published later this year.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
10th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what estimate he has made of the quantity and proportion of the copper that will be required to decarbonise the grid by 2030 that will be sourced from overseas markets.

Significant infrastructure investment is required to meet the Government’s mission for clean power by 2030 and accelerate to net zero. The equipment, such as cables and transformers, to enable transformation of the grid will be reliant on copper and its associated supply chain. We also recognise the vital role of copper in making wind power possible.

The Critical Minerals Intelligence Centre, sponsored by the Department for Business and Trade and delivered by the British Geological Survey, is undertaking studies to forecast the UK’s demand for critical minerals including copper in our clean energy technologies and energy infrastructure. They will be published later this year.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
10th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of decarbonising the grid by 2030 on demand for copper.

Significant infrastructure investment is required to meet the Government’s mission for clean power by 2030 and accelerate to net zero. The equipment, such as cables and transformers, to enable transformation of the grid will be reliant on copper and its associated supply chain. We also recognise the vital role of copper in making wind power possible.

The Critical Minerals Intelligence Centre, sponsored by the Department for Business and Trade and delivered by the British Geological Survey, is undertaking studies to forecast the UK’s demand for critical minerals including copper in our clean energy technologies and energy infrastructure. They will be published later this year.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
10th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what estimate he has made of the tonnes of copper that will be required to decarbonise the National Grid by 2030.

Significant infrastructure investment is required to meet the Government’s mission for clean power by 2030 and accelerate to net zero. The equipment, such as cables and transformers, to enable transformation of the grid will be reliant on copper and its associated supply chain. We also recognise the vital role of copper in making wind power possible.

The Critical Minerals Intelligence Centre, sponsored by the Department for Business and Trade and delivered by the British Geological Survey, is undertaking studies to forecast the UK’s demand for critical minerals including copper in our clean energy technologies and energy infrastructure. They will be published later this year.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
10th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the (a) reliability of supply chains for and (b) resilience to price shocks in the zinc market in the context of his energy policies.

Taking action to ensure that our clean energy supply chains are resilient is a key priority across our missions - both to make the UK a clean energy superpower and kickstart growth.

The Critical Minerals Intelligence Centre (CMIC), sponsored by the Department for Business and Trade and delivered with the British Geological Survey, is currently undertaking an updated criticality assessment, which will assess the economic vulnerability and supply risk of over 80 candidate materials, including zinc.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
30th Aug 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, when he will make a final investment decision on Sizewell C.

The Government is committed to the development of Sizewell C, and is working to secure a Final Investment Decision (FID). Subject to receiving the relevant approvals we aim to reach FID before the end of this year.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
30th Aug 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what his planned timetable is for responding to the Approach to siting new nuclear power stations beyond 2025 consultation, which closed on 10 March 2024.

The Government is grateful for the views submitted as part of the consultation on the approach to siting new nuclear power stations beyond 2025. This consultation was run to inform drafting of a new nuclear National Policy Statement (EN-7) which we will bring forward in due course. EN-7 will be subject to the usual public consultation and Parliamentary scrutiny.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
30th Aug 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what his planned timetable is for responding to the Alternative routes to market for new nuclear projects consultation, which closed on 12 April 2024.

The Alternative Routes to Market for New Nuclear Projects consultation was published on 11th January 2024 and closed on 12th April 2024.

Consultation responses have been analysed and the Department intends to publish a factual response in due course.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
30th Aug 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of gigawatt scale selections in Europe on the UK’s commitment to tripling nuclear globally by 2050.

The UK has long established relationships with European partners considering gigawatt scale civil nuclear deployment and, as one of the 22 countries to sign up to a pledge to triple civil nuclear globally, is working to coordinate plans to deploy civil nuclear domestically and around the world. The Government recognises the increasing demand on supply chains as countries seek to meet their nuclear ambitions and so will work with industry to realise the full range of responsible deployment pathways.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
30th Aug 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what the cost differential per kilowatt is for nuclear development for large scale gigawatt projects and small modular reactors.

Great British Nuclear is currently administering the small modular reactor (SMR) technology selection process and is now in the process of evaluating bids. Given that this is a live procurement process it would be inappropriate at this time to comment on the economics of SMR power generation or to make any comparison across nuclear technologies, but all nuclear projects will be subject to a detailed value for money assessment, including cost.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
30th Aug 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what discussions he has had with Sheffield University’s Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre on potential redundancies.

The Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (NAMRC) is part of the University of Sheffield and receives funding from the High Value Manufacturing Catapult. These organisations have been reviewing their nuclear innovation capabilities to ensure they are fit for purpose and delivered cost effectively. These reviews will complete soon and will inform the University’s decision on the future of NAMRC.

Ministers and officials have engaged where appropriate, given the independence of the organisations involved, and will work with all the relevant parties to ensure that the critical staff, knowledge and capabilities in the NAMRC are preserved within the sector where needed.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
30th Aug 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what progress his Department has made on the Pre-Tender Market Engagement for nuclear development at Wylfa.

Although pre-tender market engagement for large-scale nuclear published by the previous Government has now closed, we recognise the key role that the GBN-owned site at Wylfa can play in future nuclear projects and helping to achieve energy security and clean power. We will set out our plans for the site in due course.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
30th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what his planned timetable is for the delivery of a new nuclear power plant at Wylfa.

Nuclear can play an important role in helping to achieve energy security and clean power while securing thousands of skilled jobs. As a site which has previously hosted a nuclear power station, and is now owned by Great British Nuclear, Wylfa can play an important role in new nuclear in the UK, and we will set out our plans for the site in due course.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
30th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what his planned timetable is for approving Small Modular Reactors.

Great British Nuclear, the Department’s arm’s-length body responsible for helping deliver the government’s nuclear programme. is currently running a small modular reactor technology selection process for UK deployment. The window for submitting tenders has closed and Great British Nuclear is evaluating bids. This is a complex procurement, and it is important Great British Nuclear ensures a fair and robust process that delivers sustainable outcomes. Further updates will be made in due course.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
30th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of not issuing new oil and gas licences on levels of public investment from oil and gas companies.

We do not intend to issue new licences to explore new fields and will not revoke existing licences. We will ensure a phased and responsible transition in the North Sea, ensuring no community is left behind as we move towards net zero. We will share more details on our plans for oil and gas in due course.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
30th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department plans to take to help workers in the oil and gas industry transition away from the industry following the ban on new oil and gas licences.

We do not intend to issue new licences to explore new fields because they will not reduce bills and cannot make us energy secure. We will ensure a phased and responsible North Sea transition, with no community left behind.

We recently set up the Office for Clean Energy Jobs, which will seek to maximise the opportunities of the transition for workers. This will be critical to meeting our mission to make the UK a clean energy superpower.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
30th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what role Great British Energy will have in the (a) governance and (b) duties of Great British Nuclear.

Government is exploring how Great British Energy and Great British Nuclear will work together, including considering how Great British Nuclear functions can be aligned with Great British Energy.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
25th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what his Department's policy is on the deployment of nuclear technology at Oldbury.

Nuclear can play an important role in helping to achieve energy security and clean power while securing thousands of skilled jobs. As a site which has previously hosted a nuclear power station, and is now owned by Great British Nuclear, Oldbury can play an important role in new nuclear in the UK, and we will set out our plans for the site in due course.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
25th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will take steps to improve access to market for small and advanced modular reactors outside of the down-selection process.

New nuclear power stations will play an important role in helping the UK achieve energy security and clean power while securing thousands of good, skilled jobs. As the government has already demonstrated, it will consider measures to break down barriers to delivery of clean energy, including nuclear, and support this country becoming a clean energy superpower.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
25th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what his Department's policy is on the deployment of new nuclear technologies in Scotland.

The UK Government recognises Scotland's significant contributions to British nuclear power and values the expertise and skills within the nuclear industry there. We are aware of the Scottish Government’s approach to nuclear energy, we work productively with them on a range of energy issues and remain open to discussions on deploying new nuclear technologies in Scotland.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
25th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department plans to take to support the roll-out of small modular reactors.

Great British Nuclear, the Department’s arm’s-length body responsible for helping deliver the government’s nuclear programme is currently running a small modular reactor technology selection process for UK deployment. This is a live procurement and is on-going. The window for submitting tenders has now closed and Great British Nuclear is currently evaluating bids. We look forward to providing further information in due course.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
25th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to his Department's policy paper entitled Civil nuclear roadmap to 2050, published in January 2024, whether he plans to meet the target of producing 24GW of energy by nuclear by 2050.

The Government supports new nuclear and believes there is a strong role for it in making this country a clean energy superpower.

We want to see Hinkley Point C operational this decade and extensions to the currently operating fleet, and we are working at pace to reach a Final Investment Decision for Sizewell C, in which the Government is the majority shareholder. Furthermore, Great British Nuclear is continuing to deliver the SMR technology selection process, with bids now being evaluated.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
25th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking to support exports of small modular reactor technologies to Poland.

The UK has established strong civil nuclear relationships with Czechia, Sweden and Poland, and is working closely to coordinate and drive collaboration, including on critical enabling policy such as regulation, financing, operator capabilities, fuels, supply chains, and waste management. We want the UK to be a clean energy superpower, delivering net zero and industrial decarbonisation at home and overseas, so we are pleased to support the nuclear supply chain, including UK Small Modular Reactor (SMR) vendors, seeking to export to responsible nuclear nations, including across Europe.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
25th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking to support exports of small modular reactor technologies to Czechia.

The UK has established strong civil nuclear relationships with Czechia, Sweden and Poland, and is working closely to coordinate and drive collaboration, including on critical enabling policy such as regulation, financing, operator capabilities, fuels, supply chains, and waste management. We want the UK to be a clean energy superpower, delivering net zero and industrial decarbonisation at home and overseas, so we are pleased to support the nuclear supply chain, including UK Small Modular Reactor (SMR) vendors, seeking to export to responsible nuclear nations, including across Europe.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
25th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking to support exports of small modular reactor technologies to Sweden.

The UK has established strong civil nuclear relationships with Czechia, Sweden and Poland, and is working closely to coordinate and drive collaboration, including on critical enabling policy such as regulation, financing, operator capabilities, fuels, supply chains, and waste management. We want the UK to be a clean energy superpower, delivering net zero and industrial decarbonisation at home and overseas, so we are pleased to support the nuclear supply chain, including UK Small Modular Reactor (SMR) vendors, seeking to export to responsible nuclear nations, including across Europe.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
25th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential economic impact of proceeding with the construction of a GW scale reactor at Wylfa.

As a site which has previously hosted a nuclear power station, and is now owned by Great British Nuclear, Wylfa can play an important role in new nuclear in the UK, and we will set out our plans for the site in due course. The Government has not yet carried out an assessment of the economic impact any future project would have at that location. However, according to EDF, Hinkley Point C is supporting up to 12,000 jobs during construction and will support 900 permanent jobs during its 60 years of operation.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
24th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether he is taking steps to seek new investors for Sizewell C.

Discussions with potential investors participating in the equity raise process are ongoing. We cannot comment further on the process, as it is commercially sensitive.

We are committed to Sizewell C, which with other new nuclear projects will play an important role in the Government’s vision for achieving energy independence, lowering consumers’ bills, and securing thousands of good, skilled jobs. Work continues at pace to secure a final investment decision.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
24th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how he intends to shortlist for the small modular reactor competition.

Great British Nuclear, the Department’s arm’s-length body responsible for helping deliver the government’s nuclear programme, is currently running a small modular reactor technology selection process for UK deployment. This is a live procurement and is on-going. The window for submitting tenders has now closed and Great British Nuclear is currently evaluating bids. We look forward to providing further information in due course.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
24th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will give communities the ability to express opposition to hosting grid infrastructure.

For England and Wales, the Planning Act 2008 requires developers to show they have effectively engaged with communities, considering and incorporating feedback. This includes a requirement on developers to demonstrate that they have consulted adequately with communities before they submit applications for consent. In Scotland, the Scottish Government’s good practice guidance sets out the expectations and requirements for consultation.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
24th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether communities will receive remuneration for hosting energy infrastructure.

Communities will continue to have a say on proposals in their area. It is important that communities feel the benefit of energy infrastructure. This is a matter the Government takes seriously and is considering carefully.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
24th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what his planned timetable is for publishing the updated ETSU-R-97 guidelines.

We aim to publish the updated ETSU-R-97 guidance in Spring 2025. In the meantime, the current ETSU guidance remains suitable for assessing wind turbine noise and should continue to be applied accordingly.

Michael Shanks
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)