Lords to debate the effects of climate change on the health of UK citizens

On Thursday 21 December 2017 members of the House of Lords will debate the effects of climate change on the health of UK citizens.

The debate, held in the House of Lords Chamber, will be opened by Baroness Walmsley.

Members scheduled to speak include Lord Bishop of Derby, Baroness Featherstone, Lord Stone of Blackheath, Lord Teverson, Baroness Thornton and Baroness Young of Old Scone.

Speaking ahead of the debate, Baroness Walmsley said:

"Climate change isn’t just hurting the planet – it’s a public health emergency and the UK is not immune to its effects. It is tempting to believe that adverse weather events only affect other countries but here in the UK they increase the stress on the already stretched NHS. Air pollution costs lives and mental health and wellbeing are affected by flooding incidents – just two examples out of many. Global warming is bringing mosquitoes to these shores making us vulnerable to the diseases they carry. 

"My intention in debating the health effects of climate change is to highlight the dangers and question the Government on its commitment to playing its part in addressing climate change and preparing the UK for the damage to public health that is already happening and will do so in the future."

Baroness Vere of Norbiton will respond on behalf of the Government.

The debate is expected to start at some point after 11.30am on Thursday 21 December 2017.