Donald Trump’s election victory means it is ‘game over’ for the planet, says senior Labour figure
DONALD Trump’s election victory means it is “game over” for the planet because of his views on climate change, according to a senior Labour figure.
Clive Lewis will use a speech today to say the President-elect’s win means the UK has to take a leading role on the environment.
The shadow cabinet minister is also calling for a "new and lasting relationship" between Labour and business as the party seeks to respond to the "chaos" of Brexit under the Conservatives.
Mr Lewis, whose brief is business, energy and industrial strategy, will set out his party’s goal of ensuring 60% of energy for power and heating comes from renewable sources by 2030
The plan could involve doubling solar capacity, new tidal installations in areas such as Swansea Bay and nuclear power.
And he will highlight the UK's responsibility to play a major role following the election of controversial tycoon Mr Trump, who has called global warming a "hoax".
In a speech in London, Mr Lewis will say: "There is a real danger that, without urgent action, the election of Donald Trump could mean 'game over' for our planet.
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"It is time for Britain to show leadership on one of the biggest challenges confronting humanity today.
"But it's not just about tackling climate change. It is about energy security in an increasingly insecure world.”
He will add: "Breaking ahead in rapidly expanding markets for green technologies, creating hundreds of thousands of good manufacturing jobs and boosting productivity in the process.
“It is about reducing our reliance on dirty, imported fuels and becoming a net exporter of energy and energy technologies."
Mr Lewis will promise business his party's support "at this critical and uncertain time" following the Brexit vote.
It comes as part of a concerted effort by Labour to build links with business, with leader Jeremy Corbyn set to address the CBI next week.