Commenting on reports about a forthcoming speech by the Prime Minister on net zero, CEN Director Sam Hall said:
"Slowing down action on climate change would be a serious political, economic, and environmental mistake. Emissions reduction has been one of the Conservative Party's most significant successes in government and remains a top concern for the public. The government should be seeking to build on and strengthen that record ahead of the election, rather than go backwards.
"Climate action is a great economic opportunity for the UK, as shown by recent announcements on electric vehicle production. But while the UK has enjoyed a head-start in attracting investment into clean industries, in large part due to the government's ambitious and consistent targets, major policy changes put that at risk.
"It is important to ensure net zero policies are fair and affordable, especially given current cost of living pressures, but policies shouldn't be weakened without putting in place alternative measures to reduce emissions."