Speaking in Prime Minister’s Questions, Philip Dunne highlighted the UK's remarkable progress in cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 3.4% in 2022, while at the same time the economy grew by 4.1%, the fastest rate in the G7 and called on the Government to use next week’s Budget to stimulate continued investment in renewable energy projects.
Philip Dunne (Ludlow) (Con)
Q9. Last year, the UK economy grew at 4.1%, the fastest rate in the G7. At the same time, greenhouse gas emissions fell by 3.4%, which is more than in comparable countries. To maintain this momentum ahead of the net zero strategy refresh, will the Prime Minister encourage my right hon. Friend the Chancellor to use his Budget statement next week to stimulate investment in renewable energy projects by renewable energy companies, both offshore and onshore, to improve our energy security, reduce reliance on more expensive fossil fuels and ultimately reduce bills for households? (904007)
The Prime Minister (Rishi Sunak)
I am proud of our commitment to scaling up renewable energy sources. Renewables make up nearly 40% of our electricity supply, which represents a fourfold increase since 2011. My right hon. Friend will know that I cannot and will not pre-empt Budget decisions, but he is a powerful champion for the environment in this House, and I have no doubt that he will make his views known to the Chancellor.