Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, if he will take steps to ensure that the mining of (a) lithium, (b) nickel, (c) cobalt, (d) manganese and (e) graphite is (i) sustainable and (ii) does not negatively impact net zero targets.

While recognising these critical minerals are crucial for the energy transition, Government supports efforts to reduce the environmental impact of mining operations themselves. At present, the UK only has mining operations for lithium. As with any UK domestic mining project, these operations need to comply with permitting and planning regulations that protect our natural environment. The UK’s new Critical Minerals Strategy will help secure critical minerals for the long term, promoting responsible and sustainable supply chains.