Speaking to the TUC 21st Century Economy Conference Pat McFadden said:
“The shift to a low carbon economy represents a huge industrial opportunity for the UK. And as we make this shift I believe it is important that we consider the social and opportunity side of this, that we have a fair distribution of the costs and benefits, that we talk through the employment implications and new employment opportunities and that we have a group of people committed to the success of this who point out new opportunities to government to make the most of these changes.
“That’s why I am pleased to announce that the Government will proceed with the establishment of a Forum for a Just Transition. Its purpose will be to make sure we make the most of the opportunities presented by this shift and that change is carried through in a fair way.”
The Forum for a Just Transition was first mentioned in the Government’s Low Carbon Industrial Strategy published in July this year. It has been set up to provide a forum for discussion and expert advice to ministers on strategic issues that are vital to ensure that government policies fully take account of national, regional and local impacts for all sections of society to ensure a fair distribution of costs and benefits across the economy from the transition to a low carbon economy.
Representatives from the Trades Union Congress, the Energy Intensive Users Group, Representatives from Industry, Education and Skills groups, Trades Unions and a strong voice for consumers will sit on the Forum, chaired by Business Minister Pat McFadden and Energy and Climate Change Secretary Ed Miliband. The first meeting is scheduled for 10 December 2009.
- ENDS –
Notes to Editors
- The Terms of Reference for the Forum are:
- Provide oversight on the delivery of the Government’s 2009 UK Low Carbon Industrial Strategy and its social impact across the UK
- Discuss, and where appropriate take action on, an overarching vision for a low carbon economy that would aid the execution of the 2009 UK Low Carbon Industrial Strategy and the UK Low Carbon Transition Plan and identify where it is possible to build on the commitments so that the strategic approach properly reflects short, medium and long term needs.
- Consider and offer views to ministers on what further developments of Government policy are needed to ensure a fair distribution of costs and benefits for the whole of the UK economy
- Advise on what further economic analysis is needed for the successful development of the UK Low Carbon Industrial Strategy and Low Carbon Transition Plan.
- The forum is due to meet for the first time on 10 December 2009
- The Low Carbon Industrial Strategy was published on 17 July 2009 and is available at www.hmg.gov.uk/lowcarbon
Department for Business, Innovation & Skills
The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) is building a dynamic and competitive UK economy by: creating the conditions for business success; promoting innovation, enterprise and science; and giving everyone the skills and opportunities to succeed. To achieve this it will foster world-class universities and promote an open global economy. BIS - Investing in our future.