Julie spoke of the importance of a diverse energy mix for the UK if we are to meet our ambitious carbon emissions targets. Julie criticised the Government for their attacks on solar pv and onshore wind, two of the cheapest forms of renewable energy. In contrast, Labour has committed to setting a 2030 power sector decarbonisation target and establishing an Energy security Board to give investors the confidence they need.

Julie said:

“Instead of appointing an Environment Secretary that denies climate change and wants to scrap the Climate Change Act, a Labour Government will speak with one voice on the importance of tackling climate change.

“Instead of talking endlessly about a 2030 power sector decarbonisation target, we will introduce one. And instead of directing so much our energies into how to get out of the European Union, we will be working with our European partners to combat climate change and fix the EU Emissions Trading Scheme, to ensure that our foundation industries can compete fairly across Europe. Climate change is a global challenge which will require global solutions. The answer is not to isolate ourselves from our strongest allies.”