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Net zero is unstoppable Miliband tells MPs

Energy Secretary says new Heathrow runway only happens if emissions targets are met

The Energy Secretary has told a government committee that net zero is here to stay.

Ed Miliband, outlined a series of Government commitments to achieving net zero during his appearance before the Environmental Audit Committee.

According to the Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary of State, the net zero transition is ‘unstoppable’. Toby Perkins MP, Environmental Audit Committee Chair

Miliband confirmed that any proposed UK airport expansions must align with the legally binding 2008 Climate Change Act and adhere to Carbon Budgets.

He stated, “Any aviation expansion will only be able to go ahead if it is consistent with our Carbon Budgets.”

The Spending Review will reflect the Government’s net zero priorities, while Parliament will take a central role in scrutinising the upcoming Seventh Carbon Budget.

He also promised to involve the Environmental Audit Committee closely after the Climate Change Committee’s recommendations are released in February.

Mr Miliband also highlighted plans to strengthen international collaboration, committing to finding common ground with the US on climate policy.

He acknowledged that renewables investment in the US had increased during Donald Trump’s first presidency, underscoring opportunities for shared progress.

The Government will introduce secondary legislation to bring international aviation and shipping emissions into the Sixth Carbon Budget.

Ministers will also make annual statements to Parliament assessing the state of climate and nature, sharing actions taken and encouraging public participation in emissions reductions and nature recovery.

The Energy Secretary also committed to reviewing the UK’s National Adaptation Programme to better address climate resilience.

Additionally, he said the Artificial Intelligence Energy Council will assess the water and energy implications of new AI data centres.

After hearing his evidence Environmental Audit Committee Chair, Toby Perkins MP commented: “I welcome assurances that this Committee will have a key role in scrutinising proposals for the Seventh Carbon Budget, given its enormous role in setting the UK’s path to meeting net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“Airport expansion remains a critically important issue in which this Committee, as so many others, is taking a keen interest. The Secretary of State confirmed that airport expansion proposals would only be authorised if they will be consistent with legally binding net zero targets.

“As a Committee we will be interested in examining the Government’s approach to balancing any increase in aviation emissions with other sectors across the economy.”

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