Maria Eagle, Labour’s Shadow Environment Secretary has written to Liz Truss urging her to issue a clear statement of support for European Commission packages to promote clear air and recycling:

Dear Elizabeth,

I am writing to you in regards to the 2015 Commission work programme and the withdrawal of the air quality and circular economy packages.

Air pollution is a serious public health issue facing our towns and cities, tens of thousands of lives are lost each year. It is a problem that requires urgent Government action and continued support with guidance from the European Commission. Similarly the need to increase recycling rates and boost jobs and growth in the UK are best served by support at the European level.

I am therefore deeply concerned that the UK Government has been silent whilst the European Commission is considering whether to end two environmental packages that would encourage both cleaner air and support for the circular economy.

Last week key business stakeholders, leading environmental charities and eleven EU Member State Ministers and European Parliament Group Leaders wrote to the President and Vice-President of the European Commission to support the ‘Circular economy package’ and ‘Air Quality package’. I would like to understand why you chose not to sign the letter.

I want to reaffirm the Labour Party’s support for both the Air Quality and the Circular Economy packages. I urge you to issue a clear statement in support of these two EU packages that not only offer vital protection to the people and the environment, but provide long-term benefits to the UK economy.

I look forward to hearing from you,

Maria Eagle MP

Labour’s Shadow Environment Secretary