Meacher signs up to ‘green jobs’ pledge

SUPPORT . . . MP Michael Meacher

A MOVE to tackle climate change and clean up UK power has been supported by MPs across Greater Manchester.

Amendments to the Energy Bill that would set the Government a legal target to slash carbon emissions from the UK’s power supply by 2030 are set to be voted on by MPs next week.

Oldham West & Royton MP Michael Meacher is one of the MPs to have already signed up the “green jobs” scheme or pledged to vote in favour of the amendments.

Businesses argue the move would reassure companies planning long-term investments in the green economy and could bring new jobs to Greater Manchester.

Opinion polls show green energy - from renewable sources - is becoming an increasingly popular choice with 72 per cent of North West residents.

Campaigners from Manchester Friends of the Earth warn that more MPs need to follow suit to set the target by law, or the UK could risk losing investment and jobs to other countries.