The UK government has today confirmed the creation of four new departments, including a Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
The department will be led by former business secretary Grant Shapps, and will be tasked with securing the country’s long-term energy supply following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, bringing down bills and halving inflation.
It will also be expected to secure more energy from domestic nuclear and renewable sources, seizing the opportunities from the net-zero transition.
Reacting to the news, IEMA CEO, Sarah Mukherjee MBE, said: “We welcome a department responsible for energy security and net zero.
“We hope this reshuffle heralds the government's intention to respond with all possible speed to the Skidmore Review and the publication of the UK's updated net-zero strategy.
“Emphasis should be on enabling faster progress on the transition to a sustainable future. The government must make sure we have a workforce equipped with the necessary green skills to build and adapt to a greener economy.”
A dedicated Department for Science, Innovation and Technology was also announced by No 10 today, which will aim to ensure the “UK is the most innovative economy in the world”, deliver improved public services, create new and better-paid jobs, and grow the economy.
A combined Department for Business and Trade will look to support growth by promoting investment and championing free trade, while a “re-focused” Department for Culture, Media and Sport will aim to “build on the UK’s position as a global leader in the creative arts”.
The creation of these departments spells the end of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, and will support the PM’s five promises to “halve inflation, grow the economy, reduce debt, cut waiting lists and stop the boats”, according to No 10.
Reacting to the news, Chris Skidmore – who led the government’s recent review of net zero – said: “Very welcome news to see the creation of a new energy and net zero department, something I called for last August.
“A clear sign that government is aware of the increasing importance of coordinated net-zero delivery as a priority.”
Photo by Jamie Street on Unsplash
