Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Justin Tomlinson and Afzal Khan

Tuesday 21st May 2024 Commons Chamber

[Afzal Khan (Manchester, Gorton) (Lab)]

9. What steps her Department is taking to tackle climate change.

[The Minister for Energy Security and Net Zero (Justin Tomlinson)]

Britain is the first major economy to halve emissions, while growing the economy by 80%. We have more ambitious targets for 2030 than the EU, with the UK aiming for a 68% reduction in emissions, compared with its 55%. We have over-achieved on all carbon budgets to date and remain on track for the next.

[Afzal Khan]

At COP28, the UK, alongside nearly 200 countries, agreed to the transition away from fossil fuels. Since then, the Government have recklessly granted new oil and gas licences and pushed legislation through this House to max out North sea fossil fuels. Will the Minister meet the 50 cross-party parliamentarians who last week signed a letter urging the Government to show climate leadership and join the Beyond Oil and Gas Allowance, which aims to phase out oil and gas production ahead of COP29?

[Justin Tomlinson]

I thank the hon. Member for raising that important issue. That is why we are proud that we have already taken 70% out of the oil and gas sector.