MPs disappointed with Government’s poor air quality

MPs on the Environmental Audit Committee have revealed their frustration with the Government’s attitude to dealing with the UK’s air quality. The Chair of the committee said the Government’s response to their report set out few policy changes which is likely to result in the UK failing to meet EU targets. Joan Walley MP said: […]

Treasury defends ‘unclear’ stance on environmental taxes

The Treasury has been forced to defend itself after MPs slammed the Government for being “unclear” on what it defines as environmental taxes. MPs on the Environmental Audit Committee yesterday rebuked Government for its “unacceptable delay” in responding to a report about environmental tax strategy. The Government response to the Committee’s Report was received on […]

Government labelled "clumsy" over FiT fiasco

MPs have berated the Government over their handling of the solar FiTs case and are demanding a clear resolution from DECC with regards to tariff rates. The Government lost its appeal that solar PV Feed-in Tariffs could be lawfully reduced from April 2012 for solar panels installed after the 12th December 2011. Joan Walley, Chair […]

MPs launch Arctic protection inquiry

MPs sitting on the Environmental Audit Committee have launched an inquiry into how the UK might protect the Arctic from oil and gas drilling. Over the next two years, countries which butt onto the Arctic will be able to apply to the UN to exploit the region’s natural resources. Although the UK has no jurisdiction […]

MPs report slates ‘rushed’ FiTs changes

Government’s “panicked changes” to the solar subsidy could have a fatal impact on the solar industry and undermine confidence in energy policy, MPs warned yesterday. According to a report from both the energy and environment select committees, energy ministers “clumsily” handled plans to bring forward the chop to the Feed-in Tariff (FiT). As of 12 […]

Climate policy is at risk, claims Parliament’s green watchdog

Stable climate policy is being “undermined” by the review of the UK’s carbon budgets in 2014, claims Parliament’s green watchdog. A new report by MPs on the Environmental Audit Committee suggests that the planned review of the UK’s fourth carbon budget is politically motivated. The Government’s fourth carbon budget set stringent targets for the UK […]

Are green taxes being used correctly?

Joan Walley gives her views on green taxes

Environmental Audit Committee poised to publish GIB report

The Environmental Audit Committee will publish its report on The Green Investment Bank on Friday. The committee, which is chaired by Joan Walley and includes Zac Goldsmith and Caroline Lucas, heard evidence over three sessions into the pros and cons of the bank. Among those giving evidence were Jonny Mulligan, chief executive of the Environmental […]