The UK has announced plans to launch a National Infrastructure Strategy and establish an independent regulator to scrutinise environmental policy.
The measures were announced today in the Queen’s Speech, which outlines the UK government’s legislative priorities at the start of a parliamentary session.
The government’s preposed National Infrastructure Strategy will set out a “long-term vision to improve the nation’s digital, transport and energy infrastructure.”
Legislation will also be introduced via an Environment Bill to “create a new independent regulator” to “scrutinise environmental policy and law, investigate complaints and take enforcement action.”
Renewable Energy Association chief executive Nina Skorupska said the Environment Bill would “hold the government to account on green governance” but she expressed disappointment over the lack of an energy White Paper in the speech.
“Already overdue following government commitments to publish in summer 2019, additional delays are impacting the UK, and the renewable and clean technology industry in particular, from planning for the future,” she added.
Skorupska said: “We urge the government to deliver much needed clarification by publishing the energy White Paper as soon as possible.”