Govt defeated as Lib Dems win vote to ban new coal mines

Today [Monday 17th April], Liberal Democrats in the House of Lords have passed their amendment to the Energy Bill, meaning the Government is prevented from opening new coal mines in England. The amendment was backed by Labour and Crossbencher Peers. 

The vote was won by just three votes at 197-194.

The victory comes after the Government was criticised for their decision to approve the Cumbrian coal mine. The Bill will move to the House of Commons after Third Reading on the 24th of April.

Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Energy in the House of Lords, Lord Teverson said:

“This is a fantastic win for the Liberal Democrats, with the passage of our amendment stopping this Conservative Government from opening new coal mines which tear the UK’s environmental credentials into shreds.

"Now we need MPs from all parties to come together to represent the views of the public who want cheaper energy produced by green, clean projects.

"At COP26 in Glasgow, only a year and a half ago, the Government proudly announced that it was leading an international effort to end the use of coal. We must hold them to this when the Energy Bill reaches the House of Commons."

ENDS

Notes to Editor:

Text of Amendment 131

LORD TEVERSON

BARONESS SHEEHAN

BARONESS BOYCOTT

LORD LENNIE
 

After Clause 264, insert the following new Clause—

“Prohibition of new coal mines

(1) Within six months of the day on which this Act is passed, the Secretary of State must by regulations prohibit the opening of new coal mines and the licensing of new coal mines by the Coal Authority or its successors.

(2) Regulations under this section are subject to the affirmative procedure.”

Member's explanatory statement

This amendment will prevent the opening of new coal mines in England.