EAC comment: CCC report shows Government must “increase not reduce” scale of ambition

The Chair of the Environmental Audit Committee has responded to today's report from the Climate Change Committee on the UK's progress in adapting to climate change.

The Chair of the Committee, Toby Perkins MP, said:

“Climate change is a serious and present threat to the UK. Without urgent action to adapt to a fast-changing environment, extreme weather is likely to imperil nature and food production, disrupt critical infrastructure, stunt economic growth and even threaten lives through flooding and extreme heat.

I am alarmed by today's report from the Climate Change Committee. With typical clarity, it suggests that the UK is not on the right track today. While another path is still possible, it must act quickly and decisively.

The report says the Government needs to improve coordination across departments and I urge ministers to adopt this mindset. At a time where there are those in prominent political positions advocating a reduction in ambition, this report provides a timely reminder that the government must increase not reduce the scale of their ambition.”