‘Mad Cow’ MP tipped for top climate job

One-time Environment Secretary John Gummer, who famously fed his child a burger at the height of the BSE crisis in 1990, is tipped to take over as chair of the […]

One-time Environment Secretary John Gummer, who famously fed his child a burger at the height of the BSE crisis in 1990, is tipped to take over as chair of the Committee on Climate Change.

Now known as Lord Deben, the former Conservative MP has been selected as the preferred candidate to succeed Lord Turner as chair of the government’s independent climate advisors.

Before he takes up the role, the Energy and Climate Change Committee must approve his appointment but DECC’s support should make this a formality.

Energy Secretary Ed Davey said: “Lord Deben has vast knowledge and experience of the environmental sector, including a distinguished track record in both government and in business and a detailed knowledge of climate change issues. I am very much looking forward to working with him as we move into critical period on climate change issues both at home and abroad.”

Lord Deben said the appointment is agreat honour”, adding he is “determined” the CCC will remain “firmly independent, giving impartial, scientifically well-founded advice” to the UK Government.

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