Wendy Morton MP: Climate Timeline

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Wendy Morton's Climate-related Tweets, Speeches & Votes

We've found the following climate-related tweets, speeches & votes by Wendy Morton

• 28 Nov 2024: Parliamentary Speech

  On conversations with civil society organisations in South Sudan, I have had a number of discussions—particularly with women’s rights organisations there—about the conflict, and I have spoken directly with some of those who have fled Sudan. I have spoken with representatives from Chad about it as well. We must be conscious that, as I mentioned, many of those countries already face significant challenges in food insecurity, economic development and the impact of the climate crisis, and now they are dealing with this major influx of refugees. We must pay tribute to them for enabling those refugees to seek safety and security within their borders.

  I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his interesting and important question. The issue of conflict prevention is absolutely fundamental, not just for me as a Minister but for the Foreign Secretary and, indeed, the Prime Minister. We have been seeking to ensure that the UK does all it can to exercise leadership in relation to what are often described as fragile and conflict-affected states. That includes states that are not yet in conflict but where there are the ingredients for conflict to increase. Unfortunately, of course, the climate crisis is now often linked to some of those conflicts. We have made sure that there is a stronger focus on economic development, for example. We had some good results a few weeks ago from the World Bank, which is focusing on this in its International Development Association replenishment. I will ensure that the specific issue of defence training is raised with the Defence Secretary, and I will definitely be thinking about it myself.

  Full debate: UK Leadership on Sudan

• 5 Jul 2023: Parliamentary Speech

  According to the Coventry and Warwickshire chambers of commerce, businesses do want to invest in people—even with the current pressures due to the cost of living—but they need to find the right people to invest in. As we shift to decarbonising our economy, the need increases further. Like many, I welcome the Government’s £10 million investment to address the outcomes of the local skills investment plan, but we need to align education and training providers more closely with industry to ensure that that tripartisan relationship is maintained.

  Full debate: Adult and Further Education

• 19 Apr 2023: Parliamentary Speech

  I thank the Minister and my hon. Friends who are present for joining me for this rather short debate. We will cover as much ground as possible. It is a little disappointing that there is no Opposition spokesperson, and a distinct lack of people on the Opposition Benches. Why does food security matter? There is a war in Ukraine, the breadbasket of Europe. There is global inflation. There are global supply chain challenges, and climate change. There is the challenge of rising prices and the cost of living. We all need food; it is a basic need. So as I said, I am very disappointed that no one from the Opposition is present.

  Full debate: Food Security and Farming

• 22 Nov 2022: Parliamentary Speech

  It is fair to describe the CRT as the guardian of around 2,000 miles of waterways and the protector of historic and critical infrastructure. Much of that is more than 200 years old, and is now vulnerable to climate change. As we sadly saw with the Toddbrook reservoir dam a couple of years ago, that has a real potential to threaten neighbouring homes.

  Full debate: UK Canals and Waterways

• 19 Oct 2022: Vote

  Ban on Fracking for Shale Gas Bill - Pro-climate vote: Aye - Their vote: No

• 6 Sep 2022: Parliamentary Speech

  Regeneration of the city centre brownfield site forms the centrepiece of the new University Quarter Cultural Hub, which is expected to attract 50,000 visitors a year. Part of the space will also be open to the public, showcasing the city’s net zero future through exhibitions and events, including festivals of ideas, immersive displays and evening classes. The project will also help to upgrade, create and connect existing and new museums, an arts venue, two theatres and two libraries in 50 acres of renewed, open green space, part of the regeneration of the river embankment that will open up a key leisure area for the city centre.

  Looking at transport in particular, local transport in the Cambridge and Peterborough Combined Authority has received considerable support. That includes £4.3 million of funding from the zero-emission bus regional area scheme, and a new vehicular bridge between Whittlesey and Peterborough, which opened in July after a £30 million investment, to improve travel times by replacing a level crossing. The CPCA was also awarded £1.7 million in active travel funding to support short journeys by foot or cycle. Works include widening pavements, reallocating traffic lanes to accommodate cycle lanes, and installing cycle parking. Those are just a few examples of how this Government are investing in the area, and I am sure my hon. Friend will agree that, in Peterborough, we are well on the way to levelling up the transport infrastructure and improving the experiences of residents and visitors alike.

  Full debate: Peterborough Station Quarter: Redevelopment

• 20 Jun 2022: Parliamentary Speech

  This hybrid Bill is the first one to deal with infrastructure in both England and Scotland. The Bill includes a new depot on the west coast main line in Dumfries and Galloway to ensure that HS2 trains can travel to and be maintained in Scotland. The environment will benefit greatly too. Rail is already the greenest form of public transport in this country, and the most sustainable, carbon-efficient way of moving people and goods quickly over long distances. HS2 will bring further significant reductions in emissions, with new trains and modern tracks helping us to move towards a net zero transport system. This Bill is going even further than previous transport hybrid Bills.

  We welcome the reduction in the greenhouse gas emissions, but phase 2b of HS2 without the Golborne spur will actually increase the greenhouse gas emissions. With the Golborne spur, they would be decreased by 750,000 tonnes. Does the Minister not agree, therefore, that the Golborne link should be further considered?

  Full debate: High Speed Rail (Crewe - Manchester) Bill

• 14 Jun 2022: Parliamentary Speech

  Before I set out the Government’s policy in relation to the development of strategic rail freight interchanges or SRFIs, I want to provide some important context for today’s debate. The Government recognise the important benefits that rail freight offers to the UK. It plays an important role in helping the Government to meet our greenhouse gas legislative targets, as it is one of the most carbon-efficient ways of moving goods over long distances.

  On average, a rail freight train emits around a quarter of the carbon dioxide emissions of a heavy goods vehicle per tonne per kilometre travelled. The sector also delivers economic and social benefits through cost savings to industry, as well as employment and reducing congestion, with rail freight resulting in around 7 million fewer lorry journeys each year. Industry estimates that rail freight provides £2.5 billion in economic and social benefits to the country, 90% of which is likely to accrue to freight customers and wider society outside of London and the south-east.

  This Government are committed to the growth of the rail freight sector and recognise the role of rail freight in helping us to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and supporting resilient supply chains. We have invested £235 million in improving capacity and capability for rail freight during 2014 and 2019, and we continue to explore the case for further investment to the rail network enhancement pipeline.

  We also continue to provide £20 million of funding per annum for a freight grant scheme to support the carriage of freight by rail and water on routes where road haulage has an economic advantage. That is expected to remove the equivalent of 900,000 heavy goods vehicles from our roads, and that equates to saving 52,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.

  Full debate: Hinckley National Rail Freight Interchange

• 19 May 2022: Parliamentary Speech

  I understand the importance of the routes to Lowestoft and the connectivity that they provide across the wider area, which is vital to facilitating the region’s development and further economic growth. With the growth of various industries in Lowestoft, including green energy and tourism, I appreciate the importance of convenient transport to the Government’s levelling-up agenda.

  Full debate: East Suffolk and Wherry Railway Lines

• 15 Feb 2022: Tweet

  Today, @GWRHelp announced a major leap forward in effort to get the UK’s first battery-only, zero emission train entering regular passenger service. Helping meet our ambition to move towards net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 ???? https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1493602842468401153/photo/1 [Source]

• 8 Feb 2022: Parliamentary Speech

  The city region sustainable transport settlements represent a significant investment of £5.7 billion in local transport networks, predominantly in the north of England. The settlements that will be agreed by central Government are based on plans being put forward by Mayors and local leaders, and they will help to drive forward the economies of city regions, support levelling up and decarbonise transport. In the absence of a new devolution deal, or until a new deal is reached, the seven constituent local authorities in the North East Joint Transport Committee will continue to receive transport funding as currently, including highways maintenance funding, funding from the integrated transport block, and funding received in the final year of the transforming cities fund in 2022-23.

  Full debate: Leamside Line

• 13 Dec 2021: Vote

  Subsidy Control Bill — Schedule 1 - The subsidy control principles - Pro-climate vote: Aye - Their vote: No

• 29 Nov 2021: Tweet

  Delighted to meet @MarshaCaddle this afternoon, & hear more about her #COP26 experience. The #UK ???????? is committed to advancing finance options for SIDS. Pleased that COP26 saw record finance raising efforts for the Adaptation Fund & Least Developed Country Fund. https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1465441818632458242/photo/1 [Source]

• 29 Nov 2021: Tweet

  Pleasure to meet with @Caribank President to continue climate talks convened recently in Glasgow. Through our partnership with the CDB, the UK’s ???????? flagship £330m UKCIF programme is funding key projects across the region that strengthen SIDS resilience to climate threats. https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1465396725863133190/photo/1 [Source]

• 20 Nov 2021: Tweet

  Today at Tertulias we spoke about the importance of climate action following #COP26. Climate change ???? is a key challenge of our time but ???????? and ???????? will tackle it side by side as partners. https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1462044805312262153/photo/1 [Source]

• 09 Nov 2021: Tweet

  The UK ???????? is helping women & girls adapt to #climatechange, and is supporting their climate leadership: ????£45m to help local communities & women's groups build resilience to climate change ????£120m to advance #climateaction and #genderequality in Bangladesh https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-boost-to-advance-gender-equality-in-climate-action [Source]

• 09 Nov 2021: Tweet

  Today, on #COP26 Gender Day, global leaders & organisations unite with one goal - to tackle #genderequality & #climatechange together. At the High Level Event, we will welcome new & strengthened commitments demonstrating how states are implementing the @UNFCCC Gender Action Plan. https://twitter.com/COP26/status/1457966183500582912 [Source]

• 08 Nov 2021: Tweet

  On the train back to Glasgow with ⁦@amandamilling⁩ for another exciting day at @COP26 ???????????? #TogetherForOurPlanet https://t.co/u0au8TY6Ry [Source]

• 04 Nov 2021: Tweet

  Great to meet Armenian Ambassador @VaruzhanN today to discuss COP26 & other issues. During my visit to Yerevan in February, I saw the great work we are doing together to strengthen Armenian democracy & economy. Looking forward to working together to maintain strong ???????????????? ties. https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1456280725460750338/photo/1 [Source]

• 03 Nov 2021: Tweet

  This is an inclusive #COP26. Good to join global leaders this week to elevate the voices of those most impacted by climate change to champion the meaningful participation of women & girls as leaders, decision-makers & advocates in #ClimateAction #TogetherForOurPlanet https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1455849187564740619/photo/1 [Source]

• 02 Nov 2021: Tweet

  Two fantastic days in Glasgow full of great discussions at the #COP26 world leaders summit. https://t.co/zbMraqnR0G [Source]

• 01 Nov 2021: Tweet

  Quick team get together before PM @BorisJohnson addresses #COP26 https://t.co/MkMLRfGsnf [Source]

• 01 Nov 2021: Tweet

  Just arrived at #COP26 Ready to welcome the world to Glasgow https://t.co/CwHnaLiaeI [Source]

• 31 Oct 2021: Tweet

  RT @trussliz: Read my piece @TheSun on delivering for #COP26 inc Derby's Rolls Royce small modular nuclear reactors, offshore wind in Teess… [Source]

• 28 Oct 2021: Tweet

  As we prepare to welcome #Brazil to #COP26, I was delighted to see Ambassador Fred Arruda this afternoon. We discussed deepening ???????????????? ties, ambitious action on climate change and deforestation, and boosting bilateral trade. @BrazilEmbassyUK https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1453740038634704905/photo/1 [Source]

• 27 Oct 2021: Tweet

  The #ClimateCrisis is a child rights crisis???? I joined @UNICEF @UNmigration and @UNMGCY to discuss moving from challenges to opportunity for & with children uprooted by #ClimateChange. We must remove obstacles to 12 years of quality education to empower children to lead change. [Source]

• 21 Oct 2021: Tweet

  It was great to meet students from @NelsonPriSchool in London and pupils at schools in Nairobi, ahead of COP26 to talk about climate change and how we can tackle the impacts it’s having on girls’ education around the world. #ConnectingClassrooms @UKinKenya @Schools_British https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1451199333634764815/photo/1 [Source]

• 13 Oct 2021: Tweet

  Productive discussion with @IKS_edu and NGOs on the challenges we face in tackling #climatechange and the work we need to do together to preserve nature, support ecosystems and adapt ahead of @COP26. [Source]

• 06 Oct 2021: Tweet

  RT @SophieKatsarava: Delighted to meet Minister @morton_wendy again, great friend of #Georgia. Looking forward to COP26 Summit in Glasgow.… [Source]

• 30 Sep 2021: Tweet

  A pleasure to meet Minister @AMorenoBau this morning for productive discussions on: ????#COP26 ????security ????democracy Our ????????????????partnership on global issues continues to be strong https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1443527506078863362/photo/1 [Source]

• 21 Sep 2021: Tweet

  ???????? welcomes ???????? further doubling its climate finance commitment to over $11bn announced at #UNGA. Our #G7 and #G20 partners must take action and build on this momentum ahead of #COP26 to support those most vulnerable to #climatechange. https://twitter.com/PowerUSAID/status/1440319109699231754 [Source]

• 15 Jul 2021: Parliamentary Speech

  As Colombia begins its recovery from the coronavirus pandemic, the UK is committed to supporting the promotion of sustainable economic opportunities that will help tackle some of the root causes of the ongoing violence there. Our international climate finance commitments play a vital role in addressing that challenge. Since 2011, we have provided over £237 million in Colombia to help halt deforestation, improve land use and create profitable, sustainable supply chains that protect the environment. Last year, we announced a £64 million programme to support the Colombian Government in reducing deforestation, specifically in conflict-affected areas.

  I am also pleased to say that this year marks the second anniversary of the signing of the UK-Colombia partnership for sustainable growth. As we look forward to COP26 later this year, that partnership is a concrete example of how a bilateral commitment for nature and sustainable growth can foster climate ambition globally.

  Full debate: Colombia

• 02 Jul 2021: Tweet

  #ClimateChange worsens existing inequalities. But women, girls, & marginalised people are critical parts of the solution. Today, the UK joined the #GenerationEquality's Feminist Action for Climate Justice, to empower women to take action on climate change. [Source]

• 23 Jun 2021: Parliamentary Speech

  Protecting the Amazon is a priority for the UK. The pandemic has been a powerful reminder of the great global challenges that pose an existential threat to our security and prosperity here in the UK. We recognise that in our integrated review of UK foreign policy, in which we said that tackling climate change and biodiversity loss is our No. 1 international priority. Climate change and biodiversity loss are inseparable. We cannot stop climate change without protecting the natural environment, and we cannot protect the natural environment without tackling climate change. Conserving the Amazon is a crucial piece of the puzzle.

  As we heard, the Amazon is one of the world’s most precious places. It is one of the most biodiverse places on earth. Its role in the global ecosystem, producing oxygen, absorbing carbon dioxide and regulating rainfall and temperatures, is huge. It is home to numerous indigenous people. Around a quarter of all drugs used today are derived from rainforest plants. It is estimated that the Amazon stores almost five years’ worth of global emissions of carbon dioxide. If deforestation is allowed to carry on, it will reach a tipping point—potentially in the next 10 years. Unchecked, the Amazon will be turned from carbon sink into source of emissions. That is one of the gravest risks that the world faces. It is a critical time for action on climate change, as we prepare to host COP26 in November. We know there is no path to net zero without a massive escalation of efforts to protect and restore nature, and crucially to protect the Amazon.

  As president of COP26 and recently president of the G7, we have put nature at the heart of our response to tackling climate change. The leaders’ 2030 Nature Compact set out G7 ambition to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030, highlighting nature’s role in tackling climate change; tackling deforestation through supporting sustainable supply chains; and participating in the COP26 forest, agriculture and commodity trade dialogue.

  We are working at a national level with Brazil and with individual regions, for example, supporting the state of Mato Grosso to reduce deforestation, through our climate finance programmes. Brazil needs to tackle its problems of deforestation urgently, and we are closely watching the rates of deforestation and Brazil’s actions, as the dry season approaches.

  As we ask other countries to act on climate change, it is only right that we make our own commitments. We have committed to double our international climate finance to £11.6 billion over the next five years, and to invest at least £3 billion of that in solutions that protect and restore nature. We are engaging the multilateral development banks and asking them to put nature first across all their work, and to support countries to fulfil their environmental commitments

  As we announced at President Biden’s climate summit, we are helping to build the Lowering Emissions by Accelerating Forest finance coalition, which aims to mobilise $1 billion in financing. It will kick off what is expected to become one of the largest ever public-private efforts to protect tropical forests and support sustainable development.

  My right hon. Friend makes an important point, and reminds us of the importance of climate change. We do engage with the Brazilians. The Foreign Secretary recently discussed with the Brazilian Foreign Minister how we can work more constructively together to deliver COP26 objectives. UK Ministers and diplomats in Brasilia routinely engage with the highest levels of the Brazilian Government, on this and many other important items. Protecting the Amazon is critical if we are to tackle climate change and restore nature, and for long-term prosperity in the region. The UK is working closely with our partners there to support their efforts to reduce deforestation and protect the Amazon.

  Full debate: Deforestation in the Amazon

• 15 Jun 2021: Parliamentary Speech

  I absolutely agree with my right hon. Friend and I am grateful to him for asking that question. As we saw just last weekend at the G7 summit in Carbis Bay, the UK really can achieve much more when diplomatic and political levers combine with our development objectives, be that on vaccines, as he illustrated, or on girls’ education or climate change. We can also use aid commitments to leverage greater financial commitments from other G7 countries and multilaterals. The G7 development-finance institutions and multilateral partners have committed to investing more than $80 billion in the private sector in Africa over the next five years. This is the first time that those institutions have made a collective commitment on funding for Africa. That absolutely demonstrates how the UK’s diplomatic network and development expertise can have a much greater impact when they work together.

  Full debate: Foreign Policy and Overseas Aid: Co-ordination

• 10 Jun 2021: Tweet

  At the forefront of these challenges is #ClimateChange. Glad to launch the #KeepItCoolDocumentary competition with @BorutPahor for young Slovenes to make nature documentaries, explaining how climate change affects their local communities, and calling for global action at @COP26 https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1402935100849917954/photo/1 [Source]

• 07 Jun 2021: Tweet

  Good to talk climate change ???? with Croatian partners and climate figures @JulijeDomac, @sandra_bencic and @DunjaMD. We discussed reaching net zero, decarbonisation and green recovery ahead of @COP26 #Partnership #TogetherForOurPlanet https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1401972229626269700/photo/1 [Source]

• 07 Jun 2021: Vote

  Advanced Research and Invention Agency Bill — New Clause 1 - Human Rights Abuses - Pro-climate vote: Aye - Their vote: No

• 26 May 2021: Vote

  Environment Bill — New Clause 24 - Prohibition on burning of peat in upland areas - Pro-climate vote: Aye - Their vote: No

• 21 May 2021: Tweet

  The world will come together to agree ambitious targets for tackling #climatechange at @COP26. Today I met Hungary’s State Secretary for Climate Policy, @attila_steiner. We discussed the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning away from coal. https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1395664260404031494/photo/1 [Source]

• 19 May 2021: Tweet

  The UK and Slovakia continue to be strong, like-minded partners. We work together to tackle #climatechange, share democratic values, and are invested in the security of Europe. Pleased to meet Slovak Europe Minister @martin_klus today to discuss our cooperation and friendship. https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1394920991122415618/photo/1 [Source]

• 14 May 2021: Tweet

  There are less than 6 months to #COP26 in Glasgow. We are working together with our Italian partners to prevent global temperatures rising, and to protect our planet and people from the intensifying impacts of climate change. #TogetherForOurPlanet https://twitter.com/COP26/status/1393223954156957697 [Source]

• 06 Apr 2021: Tweet

  Touring the Ancient Agora while learning about Greece’s initiative on mitigating the impacts of climate change on cultural and natural heritage with @GRKremlis. Proud to stand by Greece in tackling climate change ahead of COP26 this November. https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1379399873179570176/photo/1 [Source]

• 18 Mar 2021: Parliamentary Speech

  The value of water extends well beyond its direct connection with health. Water allows children—especially girls—to attend school and learn there. According to UNICEF, one in three girls lacks basic water supplies. Even more lack facilities for menstrual hygiene, which is a massive barrier for adolescent girls. Access to water for household use and public services is fundamental for human health and development, but it only accounts for 11% of all the fresh water we use. Agriculture and industry use the rest, and demand is fast outpacing supply. Climate change is making the situation worse, as we have heard this afternoon. In many parts of the world, prolonged drought and severe flooding are becoming more common, which have particularly high human impacts in developing countries. Poor people are experiencing climate change through water.

  With UK support, water insecurity is an increasingly hot topic for Governments in the run-up to COP26 later this year in Glasgow. The new Adaptation Action Coalition has identified water as one of the three priority themes to address with UK support. We know that the challenges are enormous, but I am confident that we can and will use our insight, experience and resources to good effect. We will work with like-minded partners and deliver the impact that is urgently needed.

  Full debate: World Water Day

• 16 Mar 2021: Parliamentary Speech

  As a fellow, and long-standing, member of the Council of Europe, we hope that the measures in question will bring Turkey more into line with the high standards that it expects of its members. We fully expect Turkey to implement each of the judgments against it by the European Court of Human Rights. As NATO allies and G20 economies, the UK and Turkey should continue to work closely together. Our shared interests encompass trade, security, defence and climate change. We also share an interest in resolving regional issues such as the continued division of Cyprus, Syria, Nagorno-Karabakh and migration.

  Full debate: Arrest of Opposition Politicians: Turkey

• 10 Mar 2021: Parliamentary Speech

  There are also big questions about the need for Nord Stream 2 in a decarbonised future. Although the UK and European countries will continue to need natural gas for years to come, we are increasingly using energy from renewable sources, and we need to work to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from the entire energy system in order to meet our net zero targets.

  I was glad to visit Poland in October last year to discuss the need for energy transformation and a just transition, including with a business audience at the Wrocław energy congress. Since that time, Poland has proposed an ambitious energy plan and agreed on the EU’s target of at least a 55% reduction in emissions by 2030. We will continue to work with it to achieve ambitious climate and energy goals. However, with regard to Nord Stream 2, it is also important to recognise Germany’s sovereign right to formulate its own energy policy. Nord Stream 2 is highly contentious, but we would not want the debate over it to risk undermining the co-ordinated response by allies to wider Russian malign activity.

  I fully recognise the legitimate concerns that hon. Members have raised today. Nord Stream 2 poses a threat to European energy security and the interests of existing transit countries. At a time when Europe should be diversifying and decarbonising its energy supplies, Nord Stream 2 risks entrenching European dependency on Russian gas for decades to come, increasing Russia’s ability to use energy as a political tool. For these reasons, the UK remains opposed to the pipeline and we will continue to raise our concerns with key partners. We will also continue to support initiatives that strengthen and diversify the European energy market.

  Full debate: Nord Stream 2 Pipeline

• 09 Mar 2021: Tweet

  The UK and Mexico have much to look forward to ahead of #COP26, negotiating a new Free Trade Agreement alongside #CPTPP, and cooperation on global and multilateral issues. A pleasure to speak to my new Mexican counterpart @CMorenoToscano1 today. [Source]

• 08 Mar 2021: Tweet

  This #IWD2021 we look forward to UK ???????? leadership of the @GPforEducation Summit, @G7 & @COP26 to continue championing gender equality & girls' education around the world. We #ChooseToChallenge by educating girls, empowering women & ending violence to #BuildBackBetter https://twitter.com/DominicRaab/status/1368900803239567364 [Source]

• 19 Feb 2021: Tweet

  The US helped broker the #ParisAgreement at COP21. As a friend of the UK, & ahead of #COP26 this year, we are delighted to welcome them back to the agreement. Ambitious emission reductions & support to those most vulnerable to the climate crisis will be key to a successful COP26. https://twitter.com/FCDOGovUK/status/1362764470720864257 [Source]

• 17 Feb 2021: Tweet

  Fantastic to see Armenia stepping up to become a leader in tackling climate change ahead of @COP26 in November. Today I discussed ???????? ???????? collaboration in renewable energy and building back greener with @Arm_President. We stand ready to support Armenia’s environmental ambitions. https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1362028643615145984/photo/1 [Source]

• 09 Feb 2021: Tweet

  Today the UK & Azerbaijan have agreed to deeper cooperation on climate change. The UK stands ready to support Azerbaijan in achieving ambitious zero carbon emission goals ahead of @COP26 ???? https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1359135971120476162/photo/1 [Source]

• 28 Jan 2021: Parliamentary Speech

  As hon. Members know, 2021 is a year of international leadership for the UK, and strengthening the delivery of quality education around the world is an important part of our agenda. We are putting girls’ education at the core of our G7 presidency. Alongside Kenya, we are co-hosting the Global Partnership for Education replenishment summit here in the UK this summer, and we will be hosting COP26 in Glasgow, which is a further opportunity to make a real difference for girls who are disproportionately impacted by the devastating effects of climate change, but whose leadership is vital in tackling the crisis. We will seek to mobilise investment and make sure that funding is spent most effectively. We will rally the international community around two global targets: first, to increase the number of girls around the world who go to primary or secondary school by 40 million; and, secondly, to increase the proportion of 10-year-old girls able to read by one third. These are ambitious targets, as is the sustainable development goal to ensure an inclusive and equitable quality education for all, but 2021 offers renewed hope: the chance to get children and teachers back to the classroom; the chance to reinvigorate the international community under our leadership; and the chance to get global education standards moving in the right direction. That is exactly what this Government are working for.

  Full debate: UN International Day of Education

• 25 Jan 2021: Tweet

  Today’s #AdaptationSummit event on water challenges and climate change is a reminder that we must help those most affected by climate change to adapt. The UK recognises the importance of climate resilient water management and will continue to work with the sector ahead of @COP26 https://twitter.com/CASsummit2021/status/1353698363808608257 [Source]

• 13 Jan 2021: Vote

  Financial Services Bill — Schedule 2 - Prudential regulation of FCA investment firms - Pro-climate vote: Aye - Their vote: No

• 01 Jan 2021: Tweet

  RT @BorisJohnson: Proud that the UK is taking over the 2021 Presidency of the G7 today. Hosting both the G7 Summit and @COP26 will make thi… [Source]

• 20 Dec 2020: Tweet

  The UK is leading the way in tackling #ClimateChange ahead of @COP26. This week I spoke to @bayramov_jeyhun about the strong future of the Azerbaijan-UK energy partnership. We’ll continue to work together on transitioning to clean energy use. [Source]

• 16 Dec 2020: Tweet

  Turkey ???????? and the UK ???????? will work together towards @COP26 and tackle the global challenge of #ClimateChange. Enjoyed a lovely cup of Turkish çay ???? and a good discussion on bilateral issues with Faruk Kaymakcı @frkkymkc, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. [Source]

• 15 Dec 2020: Tweet

  Climate change is a shared challenge for the whole world, and today I spoke to Moldovan Foreign Minister @AureliuCiocoi to discuss ways to fight it. The UK and Moldova are proud partners in so many areas, and we stand together to defend democracy, the rule of law & human rights [Source]

• 14 Dec 2020: Parliamentary Speech

  The themes of discussion at this year’s Council included the impacts of the covid-19 global health pandemic; the constitutional relationship; economic resilience; the UK’s exit from the European Union; trade; border security; prisons; protecting the vulnerable (including mental health, domestic violence and children); the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Instruments Implementation (III) code; environmental protection and COP26.

  We recognised the importance of the biodiversity of the territories and agreed to work together on ambitious action to tackle climate change at COP26 and agreed to work together on compliance with international maritime conventions.

  Full debate: Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council

• 12 Dec 2020: Tweet

  The UK has shown leadership in tackling #ClimateChange with our own ambitious climate goal & other countries’ commitments at today's Climate Ambition Summit build on this. I look forward to working with all our international partners to do even more ahead of @COP26 #COP26Ambition [Source]

• 12 Dec 2020: Tweet

  We cannot tackle #ClimateChange if we do not address the causes head on.   As #COP26 President Designate, the UK is reducing its own emissions & supporting a clean energy transition abroad.   We need to build clean, inclusive & resilient economies & societies #COP26Ambition https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1337700668207980544 [Source]

• 8 Dec 2020: Parliamentary Speech

  The House will be aware of the difficult decision that the Government announced recently to reduce the aid budget to 0.5% of gross national income. I am conscious Members have raised this point during the debate. I have to say this was a difficult, but temporary decision. It is our intention to return to the 0.7% target as soon as the fiscal situation allows. In 2021, we will remain one of the most generous G7 donors, spending more than £10 billion to fight poverty, tackle climate change and improve global health. We will also do aid better across Government; even though the budget is smaller, we will deliver it with greater impact for every £1 that we spend. Some 93.5% of UK aid will come under FDCO leadership—

  Full debate: Global Malnutrition: FCDO Role

• 08 Dec 2020: Vote

  Delegated Legislation — Financial Assistance to Industry - Pro-climate vote: No - Their vote: Aye

• 04 Dec 2020: Tweet

  #COVID19 has shown we need a #ResilientRecovery to prepare for future shocks, including impacts of #ClimateChange. Adapting & building resilience to climate impacts is a UK priority for #COP26. As Presidency holders, we will drive global ambition & encourage action #COP26Ambition https://twitter.com/WRIAdaptation/status/1333848528544817153 [Source]

• 30 Nov 2020: Tweet

  #COVID19 has exposed the fragility of our global resilience & our vulnerability to shocks, including #ClimateChange. Canadian minister @karinagould & I will work with other development ministers to deliver a green, inclusive & resilient recovery for all. #COP26Ambition. [Source]

• 30 Nov 2020: Tweet

  Tackling #ClimateChange ahead of #COP26, and making #COVID19 vaccines available to all, are shared goals for the UK & Argentina. Argentine Deputy Foreign Minister Pablo Tettamanti & I have discussed our common goals, including our plans to co-host a #COVAX event on 14 December. [Source]

• 17 Nov 2020: Tweet

  We have shared challenges with Russia and today I discussed climate change and the global pandemic with Deputy Foreign Minister Titov. I was also clear where we disagree, on Ukraine and human rights. The UK will continue to hold Russia to its international commitments. [Source]

• 16 Nov 2020: Vote

  Pension Schemes Bill [Lords] — Clause 124 - Climate change risk - Pro-climate vote: Aye - Their vote: No

• 11 Nov 2020: Tweet

  Uruguay & the UK have ambitious aims for tackling climate change ahead of @COP26, as well as working together on vaccines through the #COVAX facility, as I discussed with @CarolinaAche this afternoon. @MRREE_Uruguay ???????? ???????? [Source]

• 10 Nov 2020: Tweet

  I outlined to #BerlinProcess leaders today how the UK is a #forceforgood in the #WesternBalkans: as @COP26 chair working in partnership to combat #climatechange, developing @RCCint’s Common Regional Market & also committed to #reconciliation, supporting survivors of conflicts [Source]

• 06 Nov 2020: Tweet

  It is saddening to hear about the devastating impact of climate change in Latin America and the Caribbean. But I feel hopeful listening to @tv_Amaro discuss the region’s enormous potential to enjoy a greener future. #COP26Ambition #TogetherforOurPlanet https://twitter.com/FCDOGovUK/status/1324267711430471680 [Source]

• 23 Oct 2020: Tweet

  Climate change, free trade and multilateralism are key priorities of both the UK and #Guatemala. ???????? and ???????? will continue to collaborate on these issues going forward, as I discussed with Guatemalan Foreign Minister @PedroBroloGT today. [Source]

• 16 Oct 2020: Tweet

  The UK is committed to working with the Nordic-Baltic region to galvanise action on #climatechange ahead of @COP26. I spoke at today’s UK-Nordic-Baltic Aurora Forum where regional businesses and civil society discussed how to achieve a green recovery from coronavirus. [Source]

• 13 Oct 2020: Parliamentary Speech

  On 7 October, the Foreign Secretary held a strategic dialogue with his Brazilian counterpart which covered a number of topics of mutual interest, including trade, security and human rights. The Foreign Secretary raised the issue of climate change and the need to protect the Amazon from further deforestation. We run major programmes on sustainable agriculture and deforestation with various stakeholders in Brazil that totalled £259 million between 2012 and 2020. Climate change is one of the most important global issues, and international co-operation is vital to tackling it. As COP26 president, the UK will continue to work in partnership with Brazil on this important issue.

  Full debate: Amazon Rainforest

  As I said in my previous answer, the Foreign Secretary had a strategic dialogue with his Brazilian counterpart, and both countries have affirmed that they will work to ensure that the COP delivers substantial negotiated outcomes in the fight against climate change. We believe that climate change is one of the most important global issues, and will be working not just with Brazil but with other countries to tackle this important issue.

  Full debate: Amazon Rainforest

• 13 Oct 2020: Tweet

  International cooperation is vital in making #COP26 a success. Chilean ???????? ambassador David Gallagher @Chile_in_the_UK and I will continue working together on #climatechange as the UK takes over as @COP26 President from Chile next year. [Source]

• 12 Oct 2020: Vote

  Agriculture Bill — After Clause 42 - Contribution of agriculture and associated land use to climate change targets - Pro-climate vote: No - Their vote: Aye

• 09 Oct 2020: Tweet

  As hosts of @COP26 the UK wants to raise global ambition on tackling #climatechange. This week I visited Poland to discuss how the UK can work with ???????? & neighbouring countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create a more sustainable future for us all. https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1314485379832123393/video/1 [Source]

• 08 Oct 2020: Tweet

  At @COP26 the world will come together to agree ambitious targets for tackling #climatechange. Today Poland’s deputy climate minister Adam Gibourge-Czetwertynski and I discussed the importance of reducing EU greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030. https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1314162191113900039/photo/1 [Source]

• 07 Oct 2020: Tweet

  Government, business and civil society must work together to achieve #NetZero by 2050. Today @JamesHughesFCDO and I met Polish energy companies and NGOs including @PKN_ORLEN @GK_PGNiG @globalcompactPL @bp_Polska to discuss the #RacetoZero and #COP26Action. [Source]

• 07 Oct 2020: Tweet

  Ahead of @COP26 the UK and Poland are working together to tackle #climatechange. Today I spoke at the Wroclaw Energy Conference to reiterate the UK’s support for Poland as it transitions to greener energy sources #COP26Ambition. https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1313801171967115265/photo/1 [Source]

• 06 Oct 2020: Tweet

  China, the UK & the EU have a responsibility to take action on #ClimateChange. At the German Federal Office’s EU-China Conference, I discussed why we must work together to lead by example to take action on global warming #COP26Collaboration https://twitter.com/dena_news/status/1313378773467836432 [Source]

• 30 Sep 2020: Tweet

  Kazakhstan’s shift towards green energy is great news ahead of @COP26. Ambassador Idrissov of @KazakhEmbassyUK and I discussed how our countries can tackle #climatechange together, and how the ???????? ???????? trade relationship will continue to flourish. [Source]

• 29 Sep 2020: Vote

  United Kingdom Internal Market Bill — New Clause 6 - Economic development: climate and nature emergency impact statement - Pro-climate vote: Aye - Their vote: No

• 22 Sep 2020: Tweet

  International collaboration on #climatechange is vital. Bolivian ???????? Foreign Minister @KarenLongaric and I are working together on this, with @COP26 on the horizon, and other global and regional issues. https://x.com/morton_wendy/status/1308435136661389314/photo/1 [Source]

• 15 Sep 2020: Tweet

  Continuing our close cooperation on #trade and fighting climate change is high on both mine and the Ecuadorean foreign minister, Luis Gallegos Chiriboga’s agenda, following our discussions today. [Source]

• 15 Jul 2020: Parliamentary Speech

  The transition to sustainable agriculture is critical to achieving food-security, nutrition and climate objectives. We have ensured that the UK is taking a leadership role through its hosting of COP26 and our support for several bilateral and multilateral initiatives promoting sustainable agriculture. That support includes £176 million invested in the global agriculture and food security programme, which directly addresses climate change through the use of mitigation and adaptation technologies such as resilient seed varieties, more efficient irrigation and increased intercropping.

  Full debate: Sustainable Agriculture

• 25 Jun 2020: Tweet

  There are increasing issues where the UK and Latin America can work together – not least on #COP26 and free trade. And today, thanks to Honduran Ambassador @romero_m1, I was able to speak virtually to all the Ambassadors from across the region. [Source]

• 02 Apr 2020: Tweet

  RT @COP26: #COP26 has been postponed due to #COVID19. This decision has been taken jointly by the COP Bureau of the @UNFCCC with the UK an… [Source]

• 17 Mar 2020: Parliamentary Speech

  Climate change is one of the most urgent and pressing international challenges we face today and no country alone can solve this problem. As COP presidents, in partnership with Italy, we are driving forward the historic agreement secured in Paris. The year 2020 is crucial for international co-operation on climate, which is why this is a cross-Government priority. The Prime Minister and other Ministers are working hard to make COP26 a success.

  Full debate: Climate Change

  Absolutely. This is something the Prime Minister, the Foreign Secretary and all my colleagues on the Front Bench take very seriously. We use every opportunity to raise this issue in bilateral meetings and in relation to business. It is vital that the world comes together and takes renewed action to limit global warming to 1.5°. We urge every country to come forward in 2020 with ambitious new nationally determined contributions that will help us to meet the commitments set out under the 2015 Paris agreement.

  Full debate: Climate Change

  The Government have a good record in that field. As I said, the Foreign Secretary, the Prime Minister and all our Ministers are taking huge steps to encourage the world to come together to take renewed action and to use COP26 to deliver the climate change agenda.

  Full debate: Climate Change

• 17 Mar 2020: Parliamentary Speech

  Climate change is the greatest threat facing the Arctic, and it is driving other changes there too. The reduction in summer sea ice cover in the Arctic has the potential to increase international shipping activity in the Arctic; however, hostile conditions and the lack of infrastructure will make commercial operations difficult for a considerable time. The UK cross-Government Arctic network met in January and discussed issues related to shipping and environmental protection in the Arctic ocean.

  Full debate: Oral Answers to Questions

• 4 Mar 2020: Parliamentary Speech

  Climate action is a priority for the UK Government and the Department for International Development. We have recently doubled our commitment to international climate finance and will spend \xA311.6 billion over the next five-year period on helping poorer countries tackle climate change. Since 2011, ICF has helped 57 million people cope with the effects of climate change and provided 26 million with improved access to clean energy.

  Full debate: Sustainable Development Goals: Climate Action

  I absolutely disagree with the hon. Gentleman. Finance is critical, but this is about more than just finance. The UK will be hosting COP26 this year in partnership with Italy and, as I am sure he is aware, this will be happening in Glasgow. Tackling climate change is about so much more than just finance; it cuts right across the work that we do in the Department for International Development.

  Full debate: Sustainable Development Goals: Climate Action

• 4 Mar 2020: Parliamentary Speech

  More than 700 million people do not have enough water every day, and climate change will make it worse unless more action is taken. DFID is supporting poorer countries to understand how climate change will affect water availability and to manage their water resources sustainably. DFID spends about £300 million a year on water, which since 2015 has given over 51 million people across 30 countries clean water or a decent toilet.

  Full debate: Oral Answers to Questions

  By 2030, 40% of the world’s population will be facing water scarcity unless action is taken, and we in DFID take that very seriously. This year is critical for galvanising global ambition on climate change, which is why COP26 is so important. DFID programmes cover many crucial aspects of water security, but there is much more to do to avert the global water crisis.

  Full debate: Oral Answers to Questions

• 05 Feb 2020: Vote

  Transport - Pro-climate vote: Aye - Their vote: No

• 25 Jun 2019: Vote

  Delegated Legislation — Value Added Tax - Pro-climate vote: No - Their vote: Aye

• 06 Sep 2016: Vote

  Finance Bill — VAT on Installation of Energy Saving Materials - Pro-climate vote: Aye - Their vote: No

• 15 Jun 2016: Parliamentary Speech

  However, the ceramics industry is approaching a worrying period of uncertainty. The European Commission published its legislative proposals for the emissions trading system phase 4 in July 2015. These proposals cover the period from 2021 to 2030 and propose a target of achieving at least a 40% reduction in EU greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The key issue for ceramics within the EU ETS proposals is carbon leakage, notably the evaluation of industries so that they are deemed either at risk or not at risk of it. Some sectors are likely to meet the proposed carbon leakage quantitative threshold, but the situation for other sectors, mainly the heavy clay industries and particularly those that produce bricks, clay roof tiles and clay pipes, is less clearcut, which is why I felt there was a need for this debate.

  As part of its Ceramic EARTH campaign, the British Ceramic Confederation has used figures from the Department of Energy and Climate Change to estimate that UK heavy clay construction product manufacturers will pay more than £40 million by 2030 under this proposal, which equates to almost £1 million per year per factory on average.

  I come from a business background. I believe in manufacturing. Businesses need continuity and stability to invest, innovate and thrive. As a country, we cannot decarbonise by de-industrialising and shifting our carbon emissions to another part of the world. Will the Minister look seriously at this issue? I want our industries to prosper and thrive. The ceramics industry needs competitive energy prices and the rejection of market economy status for China, but above all it needs a level playing field. That is why I am asking the Government to recognise the strategic importance of the ceramics industry and, in particular, bricks, pipes and roof tiles. I am sure that other Members will mention other products, too, and I leave that to them. We need the Government to look at today’s industries to see how they can be best be supported to thrive in tomorrow’s markets.

  Full debate: Ceramic and Brick Industries

• 13 Jun 2016: Parliamentary Speech

  The hon. Lady makes a very valuable point. The benefit of such debates is that they enable us to share many examples of projects and the experiences that we have all had. We face a choice: either seek to tackle the root causes of poverty and therefore many of the great global challenges we face, or wait for the problem—be that the threat of mass migration, terrorism, disease, corruption or global climate change—to arrive here on our doorstep, by which point it is often too late.

  Full debate: Foreign Aid Expenditure

• 09 May 2016: Vote

  Housing and Planning Bill — Planning obligations and affordable housing - Pro-climate vote: No - Their vote: Aye

• 03 May 2016: Vote

  Housing and Planning Bill — Neighbourhood right of appeal - Pro-climate vote: No - Their vote: Aye

• 14 Mar 2016: Vote

  Energy Bill [Lords] — New Clause 8 — Decarbonisation target range - Pro-climate vote: Aye - Their vote: No

• 14 Mar 2016: Vote

  Energy Bill [Lords] — New Clause 3 — Carbon capture and storage strategy for the energy industry - Pro-climate vote: Aye - Their vote: No

• 26 Oct 2015: Vote

  Finance Bill (Ways and Means) (Payment of Corporation Tax) — Chapter 5 — Supplementary provisions - Pro-climate vote: Aye - Their vote: No

• 08 Sep 2015: Vote

  Bill Presented — Devolution (London) Bill — Clause 45 — CCL: removal of exemption for electricity from renewable sources - Pro-climate vote: No - Their vote: Aye

• 14 Jul 2015: Vote

  21. Climate Change Levy: Removal of Exemption for Electricity from Renewable Sources - Pro-climate vote: No - Their vote: Aye