Oral Answers to Questions

Anneliese Midgley Excerpts

Tuesday 18th March 2025 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

We are going to run on a bit because we are behind. We have hardly got through any questions.

[Anneliese Midgley (Knowsley) (Lab)]

12. What steps he is taking to support workers’ rights in the renewable energy sector.

[The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Ed Miliband)]

For this Government, good pay and conditions for workers and the role of trade unions must be at the heart of the renewable energy sector, because that is the only route to a fair transition. Since we came to office, EDF Renewables has announced recognition agreements with four major trade unions. We applaud it for its decision, and we want others to follow suit. Through the Office for Clean Energy Jobs, we are also working with industry and trade unions to support fair pay, terms and conditions in the sector.

[Anneliese Midgley]

I thank my right hon. Friend for his answer. The Employment Rights Bill is an historic step forward for workers, but these rights must go hand in hand with good jobs. What action is he taking to strengthen the UK’s manufacturing capacity and supply chains to ensure that communities such as mine in Knowsley benefit from the transition to net zero?

[Ed Miliband]

My hon. Friend is a brilliant advocate for her constituency, and on this issue of manufacturing jobs. If we look at what this Government are doing—from GB Energy to the national wealth fund and the clean industry bonus—we see that this Government are determined to ensure that we manufacture in Britain. We care about where things are made, and we will make those good manufacturing jobs happen.