Government is watering down green Brexit, say campaigners
ENVIRONMENTALISTS HAVE raised concerns that the Government is “watering down” its appetite for a green Brexit and recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.
Environment Secretary George Eustice used a speech to environmental groups yesterday to insist that the approach to green regulation after the UK quits the EU system will help boost nature.
And he said Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the Government want to see a green recovery for the UK as it emerges from the Covid-19 crisis.
There have been widespread calls for investment in clean technologies and nature – from insulation to planting trees and restoring peatland – to boost jobs and the economy and build back greener after Covid-19.
But RSPB chief executive Beccy Speight, who was also speaking at the online conference organised
He aid Boris Johnson wants to see a green recovery from the pandemic.
by think-tank Green Alliance, voiced the concerns of many in the sector over the gap between the Government’s rhetoric and action on the environment. Mr Johnson prompted fears among environmental groups of moves to weaken protections when he criticised “newt-counting” regulations that delayed development.
Campaigners are also concerned about a lack of investment in a green recovery and money going to prop up polluting industries and carbon-intensive infrastructure such as roads.
Mr Eustice announced plans to “simplify” the environmental impact assessments some developments have to undertake, which he said would allow for wider considerations of the landscape and boost wildlife. He also announced £5m to pilot a system that provides baseline data on habitats and species in planning authority areas, and £4m for “green prescribing” to boost people’s physical and mental health through access to nature.
Challenged as to whether the Government is serious about tackling the nature and climate crisis, Mr Eustice said the Prime Minister made it clear that it is his “number one priority” when appointing him in February. Mr Johnson wants to see a green recovery from the pandemic, he said, adding “it’s very much a central part of our agenda”.