Many thanks to those who contacted me about COP26 and gas and oil projects.
Four specific cases were raised in your letters: Mozambique, Whitehaven, Cambo and Horse Hill.
It is essential if we are to keep 1.5°C alive that the UK encourages developing nations to move away from dirtier fossil fuels like coal. The UK's support for Mozambique’s project will help with their transition. The Government of Mozambique considers revenues from the LNG project as an important source of investment to support their energy transition, in line with its National Determined Contribution and its Paris Agreement commitments.
With regard to Whitehaven, the application raised planning issues of more than just local importance and a public inquiry was held, the outcome of which will be considered before any decision is made. This inquiry has now concluded and will be followed by the preparation of a report and recommendation for ministers to consider in due course.
I also appreciate you raising your concerns about the Cambo oil field. The original licensing consent for the Cambo oil field dates back to 2001 and the project is going through normal regulatory processes. There is a longer response on the Cambo Oil Field elsewhere on the website.
I am glad that the Government is working hard to drive down demand for fossil fuels. I do also appreciate that there will continue to be ongoing demand for oil and gas over the coming years, as recognised by the independent Climate Change Committee.
Horse Hill, the final case that is raised, is being challenged in the Court of Appeal.
I will continue to monitor this issue. Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
