I met with the Green Alliance, a longstanding environment charity and independent think tank. I talked with experts and listened to their final assessment of the UK Government’s progress in tackling climate change ahead of the crucial COP26 summit in November. In particular, I asked about the Government’s progress to netzero. I was told that the UK is just under a third of the way to the emissions cuts needed this decade and that there is still a significant policy gap.

I am glad therefore that at the Labour Party’s Annual Conference, Shadow Chancellor, Rachel Reeves MP, announced that a Labour Government would implement a major capital investment programme of £28 billion per year until 2030 to make the economy greener. This investment in offshore wind, planting trees and developing batteries would have a positive impact on the wider economy, including in the North East of England. I also welcome Labour’s pledge to upgrade the 19 million homes that fall below energy efficiency standards so that every home is warm, well-insulated and cheaper to heat.