Labour strong on climate rhetoric but clarity needed on fossil fuel phase out and green investment

Responding to Labour’s green energy plans, announced by Sir Keir Starmer in Scotland today, Mike Childs, head of science, policy and research at Friends of the Earth, said:

“Labour’s rhetoric on climate change is strong and it is right to focus on the UK’s huge potential for cheap, homegrown renewables. Enabling communities to benefit from local clean power projects, lifting the ban on onshore wind and committing to develop a homegrown industry to build offshore wind turbines, will all boost green growth, create new jobs and ensure people feel ownership and reap the rewards of the shift to a clean energy system.

“The UK is veering dangerously off track for meeting its legally binding climate targets at home and global commitments to cut carbon emissions.

“A world-leading and credible climate plan also needs greater clarity on the phase out date for fossil fuel use and there can be no rowing back on the pledge to stop new oil and gas extraction. A fully funded green prosperity plan is needed, with urgent investment in a street-by-street insulation programme, alongside a swift and fair transition to renewables.”