This week more than 20 trade union bosses urged the Prime Minister to tackle the climate and nature crises, ahead of the Spending Review.

In a letter delivered to Downing Street this week, representatives of 24 trade unions say the Prime Minister must set out a plan to “protect livelihoods, create decent work, and deliver a just transition”.

The unions called on the Prime Minister to support the spirit and aims of the Climate and Nature Bill, which I Co-Sponsor. Their letter said:

“We seek clarity on your next steps. Will your Departments commit to an annual statement on climate and nature, setting out measurable progress for workers and communities? What is the timeline for a proper consultation with the CAN Bill’s proponents, including with the Zero Hour campaign, for new legislative proposals? And will you allow Government time to continue the debate for the CAN Bill (which was adjourned, but did not end on 24 January) so that MPs can make the case that tackling the climate-nature crisis is a workers’ issue?”

In support of this action by trade unions, I said:

“I hope that the Government will do the right thing next week—and not be led by fringe climate extremists in the corners of the opposition benches and Tufton Street.

“Any moves that shy away from our responsibilities to tackle the joined-up climate and nature crises, and indeed the proposals set out in the Climate and Nature Bill, would be short-sighted and something future generations will never forgive us for.

“I am deeply concerned by the fracturing of political consensus on net zero and the continued mixed messaging that it sends to the public. The Government would be right to heed the calls of their trade union colleagues today, or risk further alienating the public who overwhelmingly back bold responses to the challenges we face.”