DEAR Mr Farron

I write requesting representations be made to Chancellor Rishi Sunak MP in respect of the announced ‘fiscal event’ or emergency budget in early July.

We have first hand experience of a global crisis with COVID-19, seeing high numbers of severe illnesses and death rates across the globe and significant economic consequences which are expected to continue for decades.

I perceive this as a taster of what is to follow in the growing climate crisis and I fear for the livelihoods of my children, grandchildren and future generations.

The Government has reacted swiftly and decisively in response to the COVID-19 emergency and I urge the Government to continue with this mindset in addressing the climate emergency whilst stimulating the economic recovery. This is a unique opportunity to ensure a green recovery by investing in innovations, businesses and jobs in this sector and to discourage investments in fossil fuels and industries which contribute to global warming and other detrimental environmental effects.

We have clear advice from scientists around the world that we have a looming catastrophe and, whilst the Government has taken steps in accordance with the Paris Climate Agreement, it is apparent that this falls far short of what is required to avert major environmental and consequential economic impacts on our future generations.

I therefore wish to urge the Chancellor to give priority to investing in a green recovery of the economy and set an example to countries across the globe.

Simon Hey

Address supplied

(Letter to Tim Farron, MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale, copied to The Mail)