On this day, which has particular significance as far as climate change is concerned, I raise the extent to which members of the Government, individually and collectively, might respond to the challenges ahead with a view to taking the maximum possible mitigation measures to reduce dependency on fossil fuels, both in the transport and home-heating sectors, and other mitigation measures that can be introduced and implemented without impacting on the economy.

This the reason the Government is today publishing the climate action plan outlining the plans we have to deliver, over time, our energy supply and security through a greater use of renewables. It is why we want, over the lifetime of this plan, to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and then phase out that reliance entirely. It is why we are committed to the kind of changes needed in the use of public transport and, in a careful and responsive way, working with all parts of the country and economy to bring about the change that is needed. I am confident we can do that while growing the economy and employment because opportunities will be created in all this. Our economy and workers have shown their ability to go after new opportunities. They will be fully supported by the Government in doing that.