Achi news desk-
The minister told Members of Parliament that the government had received a recent report from the Climate Change Committee (CCC) that this interim target was now “out of reach.”
He said the government needed to act and “chart a course” to achieve the ambition to be net zero by 2045 “at a pace and scale that is practical, fair and just.”
Ms McAllan said the government would “bring forward swift legislation to address issues raised by the Climate Change Committee, and ensure that our legislative framework better reflects the reality of long-term climate policy-making.”
The minister was forced to apologize to the chamber after details of the statement were released to the press. She said she had directed the permanent secretary to conduct an investigation to find the leaker.
In her statement, Ms McAllan announced a number of measures which she said would help support “Scotland’s just transition to net zero”.
These included plans to triple the number of electric vehicle charging points in Scotland, and a pilot scheme with some farms in Scotland to “ensure the appropriate use of feed products or additives that prevent methane in the future.”
She also promised to launch a consultation on a carbon land tax on the largest estates to “encourage more incentive for peatland restoration, afforestation and renewable energy production.”
Ms McAllan told MSPs: “This government will not give in to the climate culture wars.
“We will never diminish our duty to those affected by climate change today and to future generations.
“Together we can tackle this crisis with the speed and urgency needed. Indeed, with minor legislative amendments, we will pave the way for continued ambitious and pragmatic provision in this most important challenge.”
Environmental charities and opposition MLAs were scathing.
Friends of the Earth Scotland head of campaigns, Imogen Dow, said it was “the worst environmental decision in the history of the Scottish Parliament.”
“It could and should have reached the 2030 target, but instead politicians are going to break their promises and betray their constituents and the most vulnerable people who are already suffering the effects of climate breakdown,” he added.
Ms Dow said that instead of a “substantial response and more action”, the Scottish Government had “delivered a weak package of reheated ideas, many of which were already promised years ago and never delivered.”
However, there was support for the government from the Scottish Greens.
More to follow…
