4. Statement by the Deputy Minister for Climate Change: COP26

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:02 pm on 16 November 2021.

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Photo of Gareth Davies Gareth Davies Conservative 4:02, 16 November 2021

Don't be so negative. [Laughter.]

While I don't share the opinion expressed by some that COP26 was a cop out, I do fear that the watering down of the pledges will see my constituents indeed facing a watery future. As some of the world's worst polluters continue their reliance on coal, we will experience rising temperatures and rising sea levels. Deputy Minister, you've made it clear that you see a coal-free future for Wales. I don't mean to sound crass or insensitive about some of the questions I'm about to ask, as they play a major part in the Welsh economy.

So, what discussions have you had with one of the biggest users of coals and one of the biggest polluters in Tata Steel? Do you want to abandon virgin steel production in Wales, closing down the blast furnaces in favour of electric arc furnaces, recycling scrap steel, and have you convinced the unions of the need to abandon coal? And finally, Deputy Minister, what role do you see carbon capture and storage playing in Wales's greener future and will your Government be investing in technology? Thank you very much.