South Shropshire MP, Philip Dunne, has welcomed plans by the government to enshrine in law a new target to cut emissions by 78% by 2035.

Mr Dunne, who is also Chairman of the Environmental Audit Select Committee, said while ambitious targets were welcome, the UK is currently off track, so plans must be backed up by concrete action from the government.

Mr Dunne said: “With a little over six months to go until COP26, the climate leadership the UK has shown in committing to cut emissions by 78% by 2035 compared with 1990 levels is incredibly ambitious but very welcome. This move is exactly what we need to see at this crunch point in making the tough decisions to limit warming: to stimulate changes in behaviour and mobilise private sector investment to achieve dramatic change.

“Although this level of ambition demonstrated is very promising as we mould net zero Britain, we cannot overlook the fact that the UK is off-track to deliver against its fourth and fifth carbon budgets, and we are lacking Government strategies on net zero, heat and buildings, and hydrogen – all areas that need urgent clarity, rather than Government dragging its feet. We also need to see an end to the stop-start of Government schemes as recently occurred with closure of the Green Homes Grant.

“The Government’s climate sentiment is welcome, but must start being backed up with clear and demonstrable action. More policy inaction could jeopardise the UK’s leadership in this crucial year and set back climate progress for years to come.”