Are the Tories really ‘Green’?
We may find out how ‘Green’ the Conservative Party really is when the amendment of the Governments Energy Bill is voted on in the Commons today.
The amendment asks for Energy Companies to meet an emissions standard, effectively restricting them from ever increasing their greenhouse gas emissions. Greenpeace fear that, without restrictions like these the Energy Companies can keep on emitting from old power station for years to come.
The Guardian today has reported that the Conservative Party has not imposed the three line whip so MPs can abstain from the amendment, effectively joining the Labour rebels against the Governments plan. So effectively the Tories vote may reflect the individual views of the party members not the well rehearsed green image they have created.
GAIA Comment:
One of the key obstacles towards the UK moving towards a low carbon economy is lack of clarity from Central Government on what their objectives really are. Should the Tories form the next Government a concise energy strategy will need to articulated quickly to help businesses and the energy industry adapt. This vote will see how ‘aligned’ the voices are within the party and whether the potential next Government will provide this clear message.
More Reading The Guardian Article:
GAIA 2010
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