4 days ago
Hull and East Yorks mayor outlines his position on green energy
The new mayor of Hull and East Yorkshire has said he would always put the region before party during a meeting of the combined authority's executive board about his position on green energy, Reform UK's Luke Campbell said: "I represent the people of this region, and if that can create local jobs and help local businesses that is what I will do."Campbell also told the meeting that all types of energy – including nuclear and hydrogen power – should be UK previously said it would impose taxes on the renewable energy sector under its plans to scrap the country's net-zero target.
In February, deputy leader Richard Tice claimed net-zero policies were to blame for higher energy bills and deindustrialisation, adding that renewable energy was a "massive con".Campbell previously said he did not think net-zero was in answer to a question from a member of the public at Wednesday's meeting, the former Olympic gold medallist boxer said: "I have consistently supported the region in green energy for local business, creating local jobs."I will keep on that same track – I was brought in by the people of this region."At the meeting, the board approved a bid to enter into a funding agreement with the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and bid for up to £1.6m for public sector renewable energy projects, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
The meeting was attended by Mike Ross, leader of Hull City Council, and Anne Handley, leader of East Riding of Yorkshire described them as "two very good, strong leaders" who were "ready to fight for this region", adding: "Including myself, you've got the third one."As head of the combined authority, Campbell is responsible for housing, public transport, infrastructure, economic development, business, skills and regeneration.
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