‘Emissions Reduction Plan delays must end’

The UK Government has been challenged over the delayed publication of its emissions reduction plan. Activist law firm ClientEarth has written an open letter to Energy Minister Nick Hurd, calling […]

The UK Government has been challenged over the delayed publication of its emissions reduction plan.

Activist law firm ClientEarth has written an open letter to Energy Minister Nick Hurd, calling for a confirmed timeframe for its release, which was originally due in 2016.

The plan will set out the legally binding fourth and fifth carbon budgets.

In the letter, the firm says the government cannot have an infinite delay and said it should explain how it will publish the plan as soon as “reasonably practicable”.

ClientEarth Chief Executive James Thornton said: “We want to work with the government on a strong, effective emissions reduction plan but all we get is never-ending delays.

“Government must publish the plan and must consult with industry and civil society. If it continues to kick this can down the road, we will have no option but to consider legal action.”

A BEIS Spokesperson said: “The plan is a priority for this government and our intention is still to publish it as early on in 2017 as possible so that we can move on to the delivery stage.

“We are undertaking critical preparatory work to ensure we get it right and provide clear guidance on how the government is planning to reduce emissions through the 2020s.”

The government says the UK is on track to meet its goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 29% by the end of this year.

Latest Podcast