Put a net zero 2050 target in referendum, Red Wall MPs tell Sunak

Rishi Sunak has committed to achieve zero net income «proportionately and pragmatically.» Photo: Simon Walker/Number 10 Downing Street

Red Wall MPs called on Rishi Sunak to put the government's net zero emission target by 2050 to a referendum.

Britain is legally obligated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 100% over the next 27 years. Theresa May Law.

Mr Sunak has pledged to do so in a «proportional and pragmatic» manner, but supporters of the traditional Labor seats won by the Conservatives in the last election have urged him to give the public a voice on the matter. Date 2050.

This comes amid a broader net zero debate following last month's surprise Tory victory in by-elections in Uxbridge and South Ruislip last month, which both major parties attributed to backlash against Sadiq Khan expanding London's Ultra Low Emissions Zone (Ulez).

Marco Longhi, MP for Dudley North, said: «Given the complexity of this issue and its far-reaching implications, I think it is right to involve the public in the referendum.»

“There has never been a normal debate, but there should be. The referendum will require the government to communicate to the public the challenges of reaching zero emissions by 2050, which would contribute to a better understanding of the challenges and benefits.”

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Carl McCartney, MP for Lincoln, agreed that Mr Sunak should «rethink the runaway zero-clean race», stating: «The establishment has been solely focused on chasing the approval of the crowd of London eco-fans who have no idea what takes place in the real world. .

«As with Brexit, the government needs to make sure that the public supports such radical changes, listens to arguments and can make an informed decision.»

The appeals were supported by Conservative MPs in the party's traditional centers. Craig McKinley, head of the Net Zero Scrutiny Group, cautiously welcomed the vote because «the politicians got us into this — there seems to be no way out.»

Greg Smith, representing Buckingham, added: «If there will be a wave of support for the referendum, then let's do it.»

A government source told The Telegraph: «Net Zero was a manifest commitment that all Conservative MPs adhered to, relying on our energy security. from hostile states. This government has made it clear that this must be achieved in a way that will attract the people.”

This happened when Dame Priti Patel, the former home secretary, warned Mr. Sunak that his green proposals might cost the Conservative vote. in the next election.

She said: “The upcoming general election is an important opportunity for hard-pressed families and businesses that have been excluded from discussions about the environment, climate change and pollution to make the voice and vote heard ”.

Downing Street has been contacted for comment.