Tory MPs have called into question a pledge of £1.62 billion to the Green Climate Fund, made by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak during the G20 summit, in India last week.
The funding was pledged with the aim of assisting vulnerable regions in coping with the effects of climate change. Critics argue that this allocation of resources could have been better spent domestically, addressing issues such as special needs education, healthcare, and housing.
Craig Mackinlay, the MP for South Thanet, said he was concerned over Western nations redirecting aid funds from humanitarian efforts to climate initiatives.
Funding Shift May Help China
He argued that this shift may contribute to developing countries seeking support from more authoritarian nations like China, which invest in infrastructure projects.
“You could say it’s no wonder that many developing countries are falling into the arms of more authoritarian countries such as China, who have been supporting them with new infrastructure developments.”
He added: “We do need to start thinking much more strategically about where our aid is going; supporting real needs rather than preaching.”
Mr. Rosindell said: “The country is facing record-level debt and a cost-of-living crisis of a generation, and there is little information regarding how these funds will be allocated.
“The government needs to strike a balance between international and domestic priorities and restore trust in its conservative principles.”
Commitment Raises Questions
The UK’s commitment to the net-zero target by 2050 has raised concerns about energy security. Britain currently relies heavily on energy imports, including a £14 billion annual payment to Norway for gas.
Additionally, the ban on petrol and diesel car production set for 2030 has sparked debate. Critics view this move as unrealistic and potentially detrimental, while proponents argue for a transition to cleaner energy sources.
Speaking at the recent G20 summit, Mr. Sunak said that Britain was seen as a “global leader” on the issue of climate change.
Addressing the Commons on his return, he said: “While some in Westminster denigrate the UK’s record on climate issues, out there in the world, we are widely seen as a global leader.