Legislation will now put the UK on the path to become the first major economy to set net zero emissions target in law.

The statutory instrument to implement this will be laid in Parliament and will amend the Climate Change Act 2008.

This legislation will mean that the UK is on track to become the first G7 country to legislate for net zero emissions, with other major economies expected to follow suit. But it is imperative that other major economies follow suit. For that reason, the UK will conduct a further assessment within five years to confirm that other countries are taking similarly ambitious action, multiplying the effect of the UK’s lead and ensuring that industries do not face unfair competition.

Prime Minister Theresa May said: “Standing by is not an option. Reaching net zero by 2050 is an ambitious target, but it is crucial that we achieve it to ensure we protect our planet for future generations.”

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