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Ed Davey writes: On the eve of a climate breakthrough …

December 13, 2015 2:40 PM
By Ed Davey in Liberal Democrat Voice
Originally published by South Lincolnshire Liberal Democrats

Ed DaveyWhatever the press report on the Paris UN Climate Change agreement, it's already clear there are 3 things we should remind people about:

When we've digested the final deal on Sunday, I'll comment on the details, but the success that's now apparent means it's important our party celebrates this deal - and owns the success here in Britain.

A major climate breakthrough is worth celebrating in its own right. But we need to champion it hard because of what our opponents will say. Climate denying Conservatives and UKIP said this day could never happen. Now they will try to deny the agreement's significance. Politically, it's important we demonstrate they're wrong again - not least ahead of the referendum on our EU membership.

Remember: the fact that countries ranging from the USA to China have so dramatically and positively changed their position on climate change is a disaster for their Lordships Nigel Lawson and Mat Ridley - the black knights of the fossil fuel cause; and it's deeply uncomfortable for the gas-lover George Osborne, as he seeks to stop the massive investment in renewable energy the UK has been enjoying, thanks to the Lib Dems in the Coalition.

There are of course many reasons why a historic climate change deal has become possible in 2015.

The compelling evidence of climate change science was the necessary if not sufficient condition. Then there have been crucial technology breakthroughs and amazing cost reductions - especially in renewable energies like solar and wind.

Politics has been important too - from the completely undervalued British climate change diplomacy in countries like China - for which Messrs David Miliband and William Hague should take credit - to the leadership of President Obama, Secretary Kerry, Chancellor Merkel and Pope Francis.

But as one of the true leaders of the climate change cause here in the UK, let our party use this global success as a key rallying cry to our cause.

* Ed Davey was the MP for Kingston and Surbiton and Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change.