Renewable Energy: Workers’ Rights

18 Mar

Question

The session focused on workers’ rights within the renewable energy sector, specifically emphasizing fair pay, the importance of trade union involvement, and strengthening the UK's manufacturing capacity to leverage the transition to net-zero energy solutions for job creation.

Outcome

The discussion highlighted a government commitment to fair worker conditions in renewable energy, recognition of trade unions, and robust support for local manufacturing. The sentiment seems both positive and forward-looking, aiming towards an inclusive and fair energy transition.

Key Contributions

Anneliese MidgleyMP

Labour

Inquired about government measures to support workers’ rights in the renewable energy sector, focusing on fair conditions and remuneration.

Ed MilibandMP

Labour

Emphasized the significance of fair wages and union roles in the renewable sector for a fair transition.

Mr SpeakerChair of the House of Commons

N/A

Facilitated the session, indicating the call for the Father of the House without specific contributions to the content of this debate.

Original Transcript

Anneliese Midgley

Knowsley

Lab

Question

UIN: 903240

12. What steps he is taking to support workers’ rights in the renewable energy sector.

The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero

Ed Miliband

For this Government, good pay and conditions for workers and the role of trade unions must be at the heart of the renewable energy sector, because that is the only route to a fair transition. Since we came to office, EDF Renewables has announced recognition agreements with four major trade unions.

We applaud it for its decision, and we want others to follow suit. Through the Office for Clean Energy Jobs, we are also working with industry and trade unions to support fair pay, terms and conditions in the sector.

Anneliese Midgley

I thank my right hon. Friend for his answer. The Employment Rights Bill is an historic step forward for workers, but these rights must go hand in hand with good jobs.

What action is he taking to strengthen the UK’s manufacturing capacity and supply chains to ensure that communities such as mine in Knowsley benefit from the transition to net zero?

Ed Miliband

My hon. Friend is a brilliant advocate for her constituency, and on this issue of manufacturing jobs.

If we look at what this Government are doing—from GB Energy to the national wealth fund and the clean industry bonus—we see that this Government are determined to ensure that we manufacture in Britain. We care about where things are made, and we will make those good manufacturing jobs happen.

Mr Speaker

I call the Father of the House.

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