The Environment and Climate Change

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Concern for our environment is one that I have long shared with constituents and the issue of climate change has raised awareness of this to new heights. I am pleased that Parliament unanimously agreed that we face a climate emergency and that we now have in place legislation to underpin this.

The UK is the first G7 country to legislate for net zero emissions. This is just the start.

It is good that we are setting targets but targets themselves do not reduce emissions. We need action plans to deliver the targets. Much needs to be done. I acknowledge that it is for Government to drive this forward and I agree entirely with the progress report that decisive cross-cutting action is needed. There is much work to do nationally, internationally and at a local level. 

I am meeting with groups across the constituency to listen to their specific concerns and to learn what they are doing in their communities. 

News

Cherwell wins DEFRA Air Quality Grant

John has offered his congratulations to Cherwell District Council on winning £17,300 from DEFRA for air quality improvements.  The council will deliver a project for an anti-idling campaign at level crossings, schools, hospitals and doctor’s surgeries.

John supports programme to reduce food waste

Around a third of the food we produce worldwide is lost or wasted and it’s having a significant impact on climate change. Food waste contributes 8–10% of total man-made greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

John comments on some current environment issues

I am all too aware that I have had conversations with different groups across the Constituency but have not necessarily been able to follow up on all questions to date. My apologies for this.

John Backs British Farming

On Back British Farming day John was proud to wear the special wool and wheatsheaf lapel pin around Westminster as the NFU had asked.

Trade and Agriculture Commission to be set up

The Secretary of State for Internatianl Development has announced that a Trade and Agriculture Commission will be set up to advise the Government on trade policy post Brexit. 

British Food Standards

There has been some concern that British food standards might be reduced in future trade deals. I think this may come from a mis-understanding of the Agriculture Bill in the media. 

Comment on the Agriculture Bill

A number of people claim that the Agriculture Bill sets out to reduce animal welfare and food standards. This is a misunderstanding of the Bill.

Save British Nature

The Environment Bill will place environmental ambition and accountability at the heart of Government. I am pleased that legislative measures will be introduced to address the biggest environmental priorities of our age.

Animal welfare standards and the UK’s trade policy

I firmly believe that all animals deserve to be respected and cared for throughout their lives As such, I welcome the Government’s clear commitment that future trade agreements will uphold our country’s high animal welfare standards, and also the assurance that these standards will not be watered