The Climate and Nature (CAN) Bill is due to have its first reading today (Wednesday 16 October) in the House of Commons, the first stage of the legislative process. If passed, it would update the UK’s climate and environmental legislation in line with commitments that the Government has already made internationally — firstly, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with limiting global heating to 1.5°C; and secondly, to reverse nature loss by 2030.
In doing so, it would put the UK back on track to meet its climate and nature commitments and has already attracted the support of major figures such as Chris Packham, Deborah Meaden, and former net zero tsar Chris Skidmore, who said the government should enact this “Climate Change Act 2”.
The legislation is to be introduced by fellow Gloucestershire Lib Dem MP Roz Savage, who holds four world records for ocean rowing, including the first woman to row solo across three oceans: the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian.
Liberal Democrat MP for Tewkesbury, Cameron Thomas, said:
“This is an opportunity for the UK to take a leading role in tackling the defining challenge of our generation, and a chance for the new government to reaffirm its commitment to preserving the planet for future generations.
“When I stood as the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate for Tewkesbury, I pledged that a vote for Cameron Thomas was a vote to put a lifelong environmental campaigner in Westminster.
“Throughout the general election campaign and since, thousands of people within the constituency and beyond have shared with me their concerns for the environment, and for the future of our planet.
“Tewkesbury Constituency is particularly vulnerable to flooding, and residents here continue to suffer the impact of climate change on our weather systems. Increased rainfall and a rising water table have significant implications for many local residents.
“After 20 years of campaigning for marine biodiversity, I will resolutely carry my commitment to conservation throughout this parliament, standing with Liberal Democrat colleagues as a voice for the climate and nature.
“I fully support the Climate and Nature Bill and will work tirelessly alongside environmentally conscious MPs to turn it into law. It is an exciting chance to lay the foundation for the UK’s climate commitments and the greener industries of the future.”
Today I met with Tewkesbury Friends of the Earth to take water samples from the River Avon at the Abbey Mill, Tewkesbury.
Cameron Thomas MP has responded to the Government announcing a new review of the water industry, by calling for the regulator Ofwat to be replaced.
