The Scottish Government has delayed its latest plan to tackle climate change, in a move described as “very disappointing” by one of the UK’s most senior advisers on the issue.
Net Zero Secretary Mairi McAllan said the draft of the plan would not be published by the end of this month as originally intended, with no fresh timetable being given.
By law, the plan must be finalised by 23 March 2025, with a draft being published at least four months before that date, meaning the delay may be six or more months.
The plan is due to cover the period 2025 to 2040 and it will set out how emissions will be reduced across key sectors over that time, with ministers warning of “difficult decisions” ahead.
Scotland has some of the world’s most ambitious climate change targets, planning to cut emissions by 75 per cent by 2030, 90 per cent by 2040 and reach net zero by 2045.
Ms McAllan claimed that the decision to delay the plan was in response to Rishi Sunak’s speech in September, in which he rolled back on several key climate change policies.
But Chris Stark, chief executive of the UK’s Climate Change Committee (CCC), said he did not understand why the delay was needed as there would be little impact on Scotland.
Referring to the Prime Minister’s speech, he said: “We looked at it in detail – the biggest policy changes were about English buildings.”
He described the Scottish Government’s delay as “very disappointing”, adding that his committee would have to push back its own plan to review the document.
Ms McAllan said: “Scotland has some of the world’s most ambitious climate change targets for emission reductions and we are already halfway to net zero. However, we have always been clear that the hardest part lies ahead.
“Regrettably, the UK Government’s recent actions have only made that job harder still, not least when it comes to our homes and transport.
“While we are working to make our homes greener and easier to heat and reduce our reliance on petrol and diesel cars, the UK Government is reneging on its own commitments, creating huge uncertainty for businesses and households.
“A fair and just transition will bring enormous benefits – a greener environment, cleaner air, new sources of economic vitality, greater energy security and healthier lives. That is why it is important that we take the time that is needed to get this plan right.
“We will continue to work with stakeholders to produce a plan that is fair and just for everyone, and addresses the difficulties presented by the UK Government’s policy reversals.
“While it is regrettably not possible to do this by our own November deadline, we will progress in line with our statutory commitments.”
