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What the UK elections mean for climate security

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What the UK elections mean for climate security

Following the UK elections on May 6th, the right-wing Conservative party, who secured 306 seats in the election (20 short of an outright majority), joined forces with the center-left Liberal Democrats, who secured 57 seats, to form the UK’s first coalition Government since World War II.

This briefing note looks at the key elements of the new coalition government’s climate and energy program. It suggests that:

  • The UK’s first coalition Government since World War II is likely to provide continuity in its emphasis on climate security;
  • The Government has outlined a strong focus on delivering low carbon finance through the creation of a green investment bank, energy efficiency and market reform; and will shape innovation and industrial policy to build its competitiveness in low carbon technology;
  • There are potential flash points between the coalition partners on nuclear power and Europe, but the Liberal Democrat influence may lead to a more positive agenda on Europe than had initially been anticipated.

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