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RELEASED: Richard’s Election Priorities for Thirsk & Malton Constituency – June 2024

Richard McLane Leave a comment

Politics is in a state of crisis – most people have lost complete faith in our political system. Our MP has failed to represent our needs for many years, which brings a desperate need for real change – this can’t happen without voting for a more robust MP in Thirsk & Malton – one who will fight for our local priorities.

“I have a genuine and unwavering passion to bring positive change to our area – we can’t wait another five years to be heard in parliament.”

Anyone who has met Green Party candidate, Richard McLane, will know there is not another contender with his passion for making this area a better place to live and work; a successful businessman, Richard is not afraid of speaking up for what he believes in.

HOW CAN RICHARD MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

If elected, I will achieve the results we need.

Here are my TOP PRIORITIES:

1. Protecting Agriculture and Increasing Resilience of Small Family Farms

The government must stop undermining our farmers and increase resilience of the sector. The decline we have seen in agriculture over the last 40 years is shameful – if we act now, we can reverse this trend. We must not allow supermarkets to control prices; tariffs should be imposed on low quality food imports; while improved subsidies and financial support are essential to creating food security.

2. Reducing the Cost of Living & Making Housing More Affordable

For today’s profits, the Tories are stealing from our future. House builders have monopolised the new build market – lobbying the government to reduce legislation in return for generous donations to their party. Houses must be insulated and heated efficiently; built to better standards; while investment and support of renewable infrastructure will bring electricity prices down long-term.

3. Local Business Support – A More Progressive Tax System

A progressive tax system is needed to help independent businesses thrive and compete with large chains and corporates. I have founded and continue to lead two successful businesses and so understand the challenges and lack of support. Local businesses uphold the standards of quality we need; they boost the economy, provide jobs and take care of staff. They are a central pillar of the community which we must value.

4. Education – Less Pressure with More Practical Opportunities to Learn

There’s a place for exams in education, however the intensity of tests imposed on children is out of control. The focus of education needs to be realigned with personal needs. Improved funding is required for schools to provide a more varied curriculum – incorporating subjects connected with ‘real life’ such as financial management; food production; agriculture; biodiversity; and outdoor pursuits.

5. Stop Privatisation – We Need Public Ownership of Public Services

We need to take public ownership of public services – save the NHS, take control of our railway network, clean up rivers and protect our water services from privatisation. Why should we tax payers bail out huge corporations such as Virgin Trains, when they fail to make the profits they’d planned. Putting these services up for auction is not a solution – underinvestment needs addressing to guarantee free access and superior standards. 

6. Social Justice – Creating Equal Opportunities & A Fairer Society For All

There is no place for billionaires in this world. I want to bring social justice to the people who live here. Equal opportunities for all social backgrounds; fairer distribution of wealth across our society; assured access to quality, affordable food and housing; and a better standard of life for those with the lowest incomes is not too much to ask. I will make this happen for the people of Thirsk & Malton.

“We must embrace this opportunity – I will ensure my inputs and energies make the difference we require.”

I am always listening. This election presents us with the best opportunity we have ever had to elect a strong, local voice in Thirsk & Malton.

For questions or further information, please email: mclanesustain@gmail.com

From Farmer to Farmer – Your Fate Lies In Your Own Hands….

Richard McLane 1 Comment

As we leave May behind, we can reflect on the unusually negative outlook that has been widely reported for the agricultural sector – the month starting with farmers racing to salvage their harvests and plant the crops for the year ahead, as record rainfall leading up to April completely wiped out some crops, or at best significantly reduced yield forecasts

The Point of No Return

Farmers were reported to be losing tens of thousands of £££ pounds as a result of the flooding of their land – with absolutely no support from the government. If things weren’t already desperate enough, they certainly are now…

As a result of these floods, many farmers have reached the point of no return and so food security is at greater risk than it’s ever been; the Australian trade deal continues to outstrip the prices UK farmers can compete with; while supermarkets are monopolising the market, stealing the profits and squeezing all but the biggest of farms to the point of bankruptcy.

When Will The Living Nightmare Farmers Face End?

In a way, the culmination of these misfortunes give me some hope; I’d even go as far to say they could be considered as well timed. After all, there is a general election on the horizon, and so at last the option of ‘real change’ for farmers across Ryedale and the Thirsk and Malton constituency can be achieved.

There’s no surprise that Tory leader Rishi Sunak is jumping on the back of the negative press and ‘pretending’ he is going to do something about creating a sustainable future for our local farms with a food security index. Why has he left it so long?

Let’s be honest – he and his predecessors have done their absolute best to decimate the industry over the last 40 years. When my parents started farming in the Gilling East near Helmsley 45 years ago, there were 25 small working farms in the valley. Today there are only but three. These figures speak for themselves.

The NFU support this trend reporting that 7,000 farms have dissolved nationally since 2019 – a pretty catastrophic statistic. So why is this happening… 

  • Crop loss and reduced yields are currently the worst in living memory
  • Most farmers receive less than 1% of the profits of the food they grow
  • Tesco monopolises the food market, reporting a £2.3 billion profit last year
  • While 49% of veg & fruit farmers predict they will be bust by Dec 2024
  • And an almighty 95% of food in the UK is sold through just 10 retailers
  • This has removed negotiation power & squeezed prices to an all time low

How Do We Solve The Problems?

Reality is needed. Farmers need to face up to what is required to ensure the industry’s survival. I have worked on our family’s farm since the age of 10 years old – it is my life blood, my passion and it breaks me to watch the strong farming heritage in Ryedale being destroyed. If we do something about this now and we vote in the right leadership – we CAN turn this around.

My fear is that it will be too late by the time another general election is called. 

ACTION IS NEEDED – Here Are My Priorities For Agriculture:

1. Financial Support

Firstly, we need to lobby the government to provide support to farmers who are being affected by the increasingly common flooding and extreme weather. Simultaneously we need to be looking at improving resilience, such as more effective flood management and drainage solutions; whilst also acting on the climate crisis to minimise the chances of these freak weather patterns recurring.

2. Guaranteed Fair Prices

Secondly, farmers should be guaranteed a fair price – that being a minimum proportion of the profit their produce is being sold for by the dominant retailers. The profits supermarkets can make on British produce should capped, making ‘home-grown’ more affordable to consumers and encouraging people to buy food and drinks which originate from British sources.

3. Improve Distribution & Offer Tax Incentives

We must create strong distribution channels for farmers to directly reach the end consumer and ensure that locally produced food is both accessible and affordable to the widest market possible. We must implement tax incentives to support this. Our children must be educated on where quality food comes from, how it is produced and why it is essential to their future.

4. Secure A Sustainable Future

A sustainable future for farming is imperative. New and regenerative techniques have been proven to raise productivity, soil health and crop yields – working with nature, rather than against it. The research and evidence to support these claims must be more widely accessible, helping educate those taking farming forward and providing financial support to help with this transitional period.

5. Penalties for Poor Food Standards

Finally – we must question, why are the standards of foods imported to the UK not equal to those we expect of our own farmers? Tariffs must be imposed on imported produce, when it is selected by large retailers and does not meet our own government’s expectations. 

From One Farmer To Another….

…I urge you to consider how you vote in this election. The NFU’s president – when referring to the Conservative government – has himself said that it’s easy to ‘deliver words’. I am all too aware of the emotional investment each farmer makes in keeping their livelihood afloat. It is revised policies and relentless government commitment we need.

For us to secure the survival of agriculture, it has been reported that farmers need an average 20% price rise.

Let’s use the general election to make that happen.

Introducing Richard McLane – Nominated as Parliamentary Candidate for Thirsk & Malton to Stand in the Next General Election

Richard McLane 4 Comments

“My over-riding ambition is to offer constituents of this area an opportunity to vote for a candidate who is passionate about making our area a better place to live and work, and who is truly committed to acting in their best interests.”

As the founder of a local and successful business in Ryedale; a lifetime resident of this beautiful place we call home; and with a continued passion for the survival of our agricultural sector – Richard feels he is perfectly placed to represent the interests of the people in the Thirsk and Malton constituency.

Having lived in Ryedale all his life, Richard shares the issues that we face here – and appreciates what is important to our community. For Richard, the people in this area come above party politics, which is why he is standing for the Green Party – as they give him the freedom to do what is right for the people who vote.

Not only did Richard come a respectable 2nd in North Yorkshire’s latest County Elections for the Kirkbymoorside and Dales Division; he also founded world-leading staircase design company, Bisca which operates from its headquarters in Helmsley, North Yorkshire; and is a Director of sustainable energy business, Land Energy based in Scotland.

Born in Malton and having spent much of his childhood actively helping on his family farm in the Gilling Valley, he was taught to weld at the age of nine by his father and developed a love for agriculture at this age. The skills he learnt at this stage of his life shaped his future and he is now passionate about passing on his experiences for others to benefit from.

Described as a practical, problem solver, who has a strong local support network, Richard has overcome many challenges both in business and personally, and is not too proud to admit failure. In fact, for him this has proved to be one of the best ways of learning and finding a better solution.

Richard’s Priorities

Richard has various priorities where he is keen to influence political decisions should he be elected including;

  • Supporting local businesses to thrive
  • Sustaining the future of small scale farms
  • Improving local food production and distribution
  • Encouraging better social justice and standards of living
  • Helping young people secure a bright future
  • Reducing the cost of living long-term
  • Providing higher standards of social care to those in need
Above all, Richard strives to make life fun, stimulating, and enjoyable for those around him.

“My hope is that when my race is run, people will look back at the life I have led and say that on balance, most things I was involved with were affected in a positive way, and that my inputs and energies made a difference.”

To contact Richard about concerns or priorities you feel need addressing in the Thirsk & Malton constituency, please email him on mclanesustain@gmail.com

Are You Ready To Knock £10 Billion Off Energy Costs Without Spending Any Public Money? Here’s How…

Richard McLane Leave a comment

As the news hits home that Rishi Sunak and his faithful government will further invest into new gas-fired power stations, we read with interest a more attractive alternative which would allow us to in fact save the nation over £10 billion per year on energy bills, without spending a penny of public money.

The conservative government’s decision this week goes against their supposed commitment of reaching zero carbon electricity by 2035. In reality, their choice secures another 10 years at least of sky-high energy costs and takes away the investment potential of reducing energy prices long-term, by building the infrastructure needed to support renewable power generation.

The Only Way To Reduce Energy Prices Long-Term….

Research has shown that solar power is now the cheapest form of generating electricity, with renewables offering the only way in which we can ensure energy security is achieved long-term. Moreover, as the world economy is forecast to treble by 2050, we are being placed in an irretrievable position, where the task of building firm foundations for generating carbon-free energy will become almost impossible the longer we leave it.

At the very least, why are we not making the equivalent investment simultaneously into clean renewable power? Thus supporting a transition towards reducing our cost of living and improving the damaging effects that fossil fuels are imposing on the sustainability of our planet.

So, as the spring budget is revealed in advance of announcing a general election – a Green Budget is launched by Green Industrialist, Dale Vince – including a six step process of ‘cost-free measures that would save the nation over £10 billion per year on energy bills, helping tackle the cost-of-living crisis.‘

Green Budget Headlines – How To Reduce Costs

1. Lift the ban on onshore wind – saving £16.3 billion over next ten years on the nation’s energy bills.

2. Reinstate the zero carbon standard for new home building – saving £9 billion over the next ten years on the nation’s energy bills, just from new homes.

3. Cap the price of North Sea gas – as we have with retail energy bills, this would save consumers £60 billion over the next ten years.

4. Break the link between gas prices and electricity – saving £50 billion over the next ten years.

5. Launch a national program for Energy Independent homes – which will produce 25% of the green energy we need to reach 100% targets (with no grid delays) + lower home energy bills by £1500 per year.

6.  We can fund the energy independence national programme – by transitioning subsidies away from fossil fuels (currently £16 billion per year) to this program over a 5 year period.  

To understand how this Green Budget will work – read Dale’s full blog here >>

Quite simply – to reduce energy costs, improve energy security and achieve zero-carbon targets, investment must be made NOW to develop renewables and grid capacity. Instead, renewable projects have been left waiting or are constantly being rejected, because the infrastructure required does not currently exist.

Positive change is needed – now, more than ever.

Ryedale’s 3rd Annual Hedgelaying Event, Hosted by Thirsk & Malton’s Parliamentary Candidate, Richard McLane

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With a strong and welcome presence from our farming community in previous years, the event has also been attended by people from all walks of life – including local Ryedale residents, families, conservationists, horticulturalists, students and many more. Please come along, everyone is welcome to our free community event.

Back By Popular Demand – Award Winning Hedgelayer, Farmer & Engineer Ed Caldecott Returns To Support Us.

Come and learn how it’s done by a true expert, or if you know a thing or two … we’d love to see your skills! Ryedale’s hedgelaying dream team can’t wait to welcome you to the Gilling Valley…

Following the extraordinary success and interest in our previous hedgelaying events, this year’s event has been extended – now it its third year – to take place over two days in February 2024. The event will see 200 metres of mixed hedging being laid, with demonstrations taking place of both the Midland Bullock and Yorkshire hedgelaying styles, located at Lodgefield Farm, Gilling East.

Led by Ed Caldecott, a true professional and award-winning hedgelayer, farmer and engineer – the event remains FREE to all those attending and is open to anybody keen to either learn or practise their skills in the ancient craft of hedgelaying. While Richard Mclane, founder of local business, Bisca staircases has sponsored the event as part of its environmental quest to support projects which conserve the landscape in our local area; his family are looking forward to once again hosting a strong attendance out on the hilltop of their farm, in the beautiful Gilling Valley.

THE BENEFITS OF HEDGELAYING

Hedgelaying is the only way to stimulate new growth from ground level in mature hedgerows, lasting 20+ years before the need to repeat, whilst prolonging a hedge’s lifespan without having to replant; this is a re-emerging technique which offers many benefits to landowners including:

  • Effectively containing stock and providing shelter for farm animals
  • Reducing costs for fencing and time needed for hedge maintenance
  • Preserving the natural landscape and our traditional farming heritage
  • Enhancing the beauty of the hedge itself and the surrounding countryside
  • Providing natural habitats for wildlife and enhancing the local biodiversity

If left unmaintained, a hedgerow will lose its structure, become weak and gappy, often either starting to rot at the root or alternatively growing to look like a tree and thus, losing its hedging qualities.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND OUR HEDGELAYING EVENT?

Whether you’re looking to get a grasp of the skills required to lay a hedge, practise what you already know with like-minded people – or even show us how it’s done… we’d love to see you.

The day will combine masses of enthusiasm with some of the best views in Ryedale – and most importantly a passion for conserving our much-loved farming heritage and landscape. Hot drinks, soup and cake will be served.

WHEN: Fri/Sat 16th & 17th Feb 2024 @7.30am to 15.30pm

WHERE: Gilling East, Near Helmsley, Ryedale, North Yorkshire

LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE – SAVE YOUR PLACE TODAY >>

To find out full details of the event, please click here.

Or to ask any questions, please contact Richard McLane on mclanesustain@gmail.com or 07872 530465

Led By Former Green Councillor – Local Candidate John Law Stands For By-Election in Sowerby & Topcliffe Division

Richard McLane 6 Comments

Following the sad news that popular Green councillor for Sowerby & Topcliffe division, Dave Whitfield, has been forced to resign from post due to ill health, John Law has been selected as his successor and your local Green Party candidate for the upcoming by-election on Thursday, 30th November.

Although he was unable to stand for the full term, Dave was voted in as Green Councillor in 2022 for this area and since then has worked tirelessly in the community to support local concerns and initiatives; he was making some excellent progress until he became unwell and we’d like to thank him for his valued efforts.

Introducing John Law – Green Party Candidate

John has previously had great success in local elections and is an excellent choice for continuing the hard work and dedication our former Green Councillor has given to the role for Sowerby & Topcliffe division.

“My name is John Law, I live locally and enjoy the peace and beauty of this area. I am organised, hardworking and love getting things done. Unlike other party candidates, the Green Party offers me the chance to represent your views and concerns with a strong and independent voice. I am ready to make difference to the people who live here and have over 30 years of experience working in a variety of relevant roles in the private, public and third sectors.”

“I care deeply about the local community and can be trusted.”

JOHN’S PRIORITIES

John has a mission – to put the PEOPLE of Sowerby & Topcliffe first – EVERY TIME.

Their needs should come above party politics.

John believes this community deserves better. Preserving the character of the towns and villages is a genuine priority for him – this is an incredibly beautiful part of North Yorkshire – yet it has felt neglected by local and national government for a long time.

John has identified the following priorities for Sowerby & Topcliffe:

  • Reduce Cost of Living
  • Support Local Businesses
  • Improve Social Care
  • Reduce Litter & Increase Recycling
  • Better Support Farmers
  • Protect Our Green Spaces
  • Improve Public Transport
  • Better Maintain Highways
  • Build Affordable Housing
  • Encourage Local Food Production
  • Clean Up Our Rivers & Waterways
  • Support Waste Management

John Law will be the kind of Councillor who reaches out to people, a Councillor who listens to resident’s worries and can be trusted to tackle the issues that affect you day to day. A Councillor who, unlike other party candidates, does not have to toe a party line. John Law will not let you down.

EVERY VOTE COUNTS – WHY YOU MUST VOTE….

In 2022 the people of Sowerby & Topcliffe wanted positive change -they made that happen by voting Green. You have that opportunity again and with your support, John Law can win.

PLEASE BEWARE: Voting was very close when your Green Councillor was elected in 2022. Every vote counts – we still have a Conservative-run County Council and so if you want your voice heard – voting for John Law, Green Party WILL achieve that.

A vote for John Law is a vote for this community. It’s the ONLY VOTE that will make a difference to Sowerby & Topcliffe.

Don’t forget, if you vote for anyone else – another Conservative is most likely to win and Sowerby & Topcliffe will lose their voice. We need positive change and only John Law can achieve this for you.

A FINAL WORD FROM JOHN…

“I’m free to be an independent voice for you. I will follow in the footsteps of Dave Whitfield – working hard for residents, businesses and farmers within Sowerby & Topcliffe. I will be out in the community, listening and acting upon what I hear – taking care of the needs of the people.”
John Law, Green Party Candidate – Sowerby & Topcliffe By-Election
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If you would like to get in touch or have any concerns you would like John to prioritise – or perhaps you would like a poster to display in your property – please email John on john@johnlaw.green

Promoted by Martin Brampton on behalf of John Law (Green Party) both at Unit 130077, PO Box 6945, London, W1A 6US

FREE Ryevitalise Event for FARMERS – The Benefits of Integrating Trees to Farming Systems

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Organised by Ryevitalise and hosted by kind permission of the McLane family on their small family farm in Gilling East, this event is for the benefit of farmers in our area and will look at the value of integrating trees into your farm system, providing the benefits a project like this can provide. Please read below to find out more….

On Monday 6th November at 10am, we invite farmers from the Ryevitalise catchment area to join us on a Farm Walk organised at a local farm in Gilling East, where we will explore the benefits and practicalities of integrating trees into your farming systems. We will discuss how more trees can be grown whilst sustaining strong productivity of your farmland.

The event will be introduced by the McLane family who will summarise the projects they have undertaken.

Headline speaker, James Ramskir Gardiner will then take over – speaking as national agroforestry advisor for the Forestry Commission. He will be joined by members of the woodland team from both the North York Moors National Park Authority and local Forestry Commission, who will together present opportunities for integrating trees, explaining the funding and support that is available.

Discussion Topics Include:

  • Introduction to the concepts of integrating trees into your farm system (agroforestry) and making the most of your existing farm woodlands
  • Grant opportunities for integrating trees through the National and local schemes
  • Research and evidence showing how trees can benefit livestock and agricultural productivity
  • Design considerations when adding trees into your farming system
  • Farm walk looking at how an orchard has been created and fruit trees added into hedgerows, along with more mature wood pasture

HOW TO BOOK OR FIND OUT MORE…

TO SAVE YOUR PLACE – SCAN THIS QR CODE

Alternatively visit Eventbrite by clicking here >>

Email: hugillandeaton@outlook.com

Or Call Fraser on 07502 425266

STRICTLY FOR RYEVITALISE CATCHMENT FARMERS AND LANDOWNERS ONLY

AN EVENT ORGANISED BY:

Why Is Our MP, Kevin Hollinrake Avoiding The Answers To Our Five Burning Questions?

Richard McLane 1 Comment

Sadly, as often is the case, the responses we received from our MP Kevin Hollinrake regarding the government’s flawed renewable energy strategy – were less than adequate. Their failure to support renewables is not only negatively impacting both land occupier and solar developer – it is also forcing a continued dependence on expensive, finite energy resources, such as gas and oil.

Despite their need to reinstate a sense of trust with the British public, the lack of ability to give a straight answer to a simple question, seems to be commonplace for the conservative party. Whilst the Sturdy family are fighting for survival on their family farm, the government’s track record for meeting next year’s target for 20GW of solar energy production is shameful, forcing large scale proposals at the expense of our prime agricultural land; and making it near enough impossible for solar developers to do what’s needed.

With only 5GW out of the current 14GW of capacity coming from rooftops – you would wonder why there isn’t more encouragement for installations on buildings – or indeed brownfield sites, rather than using productive farmland? Sadly it all comes down to the inadequate grid infrastructure and government investment, which is forcing proposals like this.

With the next target being to produce 70GW of solar power by 2035 – a 5 fold increase to be achieved in just 12 years – the pressure has never been greater to put in place improved measures.

What was therefore most alarming from Kevin’s reply, was the continuous use of either future or conditional tense, so stating things that ‘will’ take place or ‘could’ make a difference. Despite woeful progress over the past 10 years, there is STILL no confirmed commitment being offered for how this failing trend will be reversed – or how farmer and solar developer will be able to co-exist in harmony, sustaining a greener future alongside the need for local, high quality food production.

We have asked for clarity from Kevin on his responses:

Q1 to Kevin) How can you genuinely oppose a solar proposal such as the one at Old Malton, when this is the outcome of your government’s failure to legislate and incentivise solar installations in the right places?   

Kevin Responded: “I have been consistent in what I have said on this issue. We need to protect the best and most versatile land for agricultural purposes; this is to ensure that farmers are not driven off of their farms. I support solar farms where it is appropriate to do so, such as on brownfield sites. I do not believe the site at Old Malton is a suitable place for a solar farm, as I have previously expressed.“

Clarification Needed:

You encouraged Harmony Energy to take this route of solar farm development, so if Old Malton isn’t suitable, where is? You support brownfield sites, but are there any viable brownfield sites in Ryedale due to the limitations of the poor grid infrastructure. Could you therefore confirm:

  • If you are saying Old Malton is not suitable, where would be a suitable alternative site, which would generate the same quantity of solar energy and service the same number of homes in the Ryedale district?
  • Which solar applications have you supported in our area and how much solar power do they generate?
  • Where are the available brownfield sites you refer to as being appropriate?

Q2 to Kevin) Bearing in mind the conservative government is spending circa £100 billion on HS2, please let us know how much and when will the government be investing in the national grid infrastructure, to ensure that future solar targets can be met without further jeopardising the British farming industry? 

Kevin Responded: “This will come from the Future System Operator, which will look at the Great Britain’s energy system as a whole, integrating existing networks with emerging technologies. The Future System Operator will be a new public body that will absorb the existing capabilities of the Electricity System Operator, and, where appropriate, National Grid Gas.… It will also provide strategic oversight of the UK gas system by taking on longer-term planning in respect of gas.“

Clarification Needed:

  • The question hasn’t been answered – in terms of what budget has been assigned to improving the grid infrastructure? Or when will this work be started, completed and what are the quantifiable commitments in terms of upgrading existing grid capacity?  
  • You say the FSO “will” be a new public body – when will this come in to force – and what are their targets?
  • In particular, what improvements are planned for the grid in the Malton and Thirsk constituency / North Yorkshire?

Q3) In light of their torment, please confirm when will you propose a revised policy for implementing a realistic and truly beneficial solar energy plan – one which clearly outlines the parameters for viable applications, and rewards solar proposals in the right places – such as the untouched rooftops of our commercial properties and new homes, or low-grade land & brownfield sites available in the UK?

Kevin Responded: “…As part of the new Energy Security Strategy, ministers are looking to increase the UK’s current 14GW of solar capacity, which could grow up to five times by 2035. To support solar deployment, the Government is consulting on the rules for solar projects. …The Government also plans to review permitted development rights to make it easier for rooftop solar to be deployed on households, as well as public and commercial buildings.… The Government is also extending the VAT relief available for the installation of energy saving materials. This relief is being increased further by introducing a time-limited zero rate for the installation of these materials. More specifically, the Government supported over 830,000 small solar projects through the Feed-in Tariff between 2010 and 2019.”

Clarification Needed:

  • Can you confirm the existing parameters set out by the government for solar farm development and how these prevent applications / protect prime agricultural land and farmers?
  • When/How will the government incentivise and legislate for solar installations to take place on the rooftops of suitable buildings – domestic / commercial warehouses / schools / hospitals etc ?

The other things you mention are not relevant to the Sturdy’s situation, many are vague as to when they will offer a tangible benefit – please confirm:

  • You say UK’s current 14GW of solar capacity “could” grow up to five times by 2035. This offers no commitment – how will the current government increase solar PV capacity to 70GW by 2035 – that is +56GW in 12 years?
  • When will the time-limited zero rate for the installation of energy saving materials start/finish? Who is eligible to claim this?
  • When will the consultations on the rules for solar proposals take place and what changes do you expect to see?
  • When are you planning to have the review of permitted development rights completed so solar installations are passed more quickly and how will it make the process easier?
  • You say the government supported 830,000 homes between 2010-2019 with small solar projects – how many homes have they helped in the most recent 4 years and what is the target for/ how will they help homes in the coming 5+ years? The climate crisis is not over, in fact it has barely begun.

Q4 to Kevin) In support of the rooftop solar campaign, I ask, why businesses (like my own) which are willing to help you achieve the solar targets you have set, are not incentivised, supported or rewarded financially for doing so?

Kevin Responded: “The Government is committed to widespread deployment of rooftop solar and will be setting up a taskforce to help deliver this ambition. We have introduced a permitted development right in 2015 to encourage the take-up of solar panels on non-domestic buildings. Compared to previous rights, this provides for a 20-fold increase in the amount of solar technology that can go onto the roofs of commercial buildings without the need to submit a full planning application.”

Clarification Needed:

  • Why does your government penalise businesses by increasing business rates for organisations who have personally invested in placing solar panels on their rooftops and are helping to achieve essential climate goals?
  • Why are all new commercial properties not required and incentivised financially to install solar panels on their rooftops, thus reducing the amount of land that will be used? Will this ever be something that the government will introduce, if so by when?
  • Can you confirm when the taskforce will be set up and what tangible results it will achieve?
  • If the permitted development right was introduced in 2015  to encourage solar installations on non-domestic buildings, why is only 5GW of solar energy produced from rooftops in the UK? How can this be enough. Compared with other European countries this statistic is embarrassing.

Q5 for Kevin) My final question is on behalf of local businesses. When are you going to regulate the energy market so that prices are capped and incentives exist for businesses to invest in solar panels – allowing them to reduce their energy bills, whilst also working towards the climate goals that your government has promised?

Kevin Responded: “Insofar as incentivising businesses to place solar panels on their property, I believe the business case for a reduction in energy bills provides that incentive.”

Clarification Needed:

Again the question has not been answered – businesses need to know:

  • When will the energy market be regulated so that prices are capped and businesses can expect fair and predictable costs? This was highlighted on the BBC news only this week.
  • A solar installation requires a large capital outlay before seeing any benefits from costs in energy reduction – why do you not offer businesses financial support to assist with this expense?

We look forward to getting the answers we need and understanding exactly how the government is working to support net zero targets through renewable development, without jeopardising Britain’s agricultural heritage.

Government Funds Record Oil Profits With Public Money – While Cost Of Living Continues To Rise and Businesses Struggle To Stay Afloat

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I’m reading the third article in as many weeks reporting that oil companies have made record profits this year, thanks to G20 governments increasing subsidies by 475% to the fossil fuel industry – essentially funding these profits with our (public) money. How can this be right and why are we not looking at better options than lining the oil giant’s pockets with our hard earned cash?

The Evidence Speaks For Itself

Evidence was published last month by the Office for Budgetary Responsibility (read report here) advising the government of two important findings from their analysis:

  • It will cost our economy twice as much to remain dependent on fossil fuels than to make a transition to zero carbon energy – therefore bringing long-term benefits to households and businesses in terms of reduced costs
  • Due to rising energy prices – for the first time it is now confirmed that the cost of generating electricity from renewable energy sources is up to 8x times cheaper than oil / gas alternatives – again offering long term savings to consumers

The Scale Of The Energy Crisis

Gas prices rose by 150% between 2019 and 2022, significantly reducing household income and placing strain on consumers to keep warm as the coming winter approaches. As the UK is the fourth most gas-dependent economy in Europe – the delays of a transition to more sustainable energy sources will have grave consequences. The report goes on to affirm that the UK’s limited investment in to renewables is causing us to fall embarrassingly behind neighbouring countries in Europe, who are proactively adopting more sustainable energy solutions.

So much so that recent data for 2022 shows that Germany and Italy both saw an increased investment of +0.2% of their overall GDP into low carbon technologies, versus a -0.2% investment from the UK government. Yes – you did read that correctly; the UK are going backwards despite the urgency that we face.

The economic case for developing renewable energy has never been more clear. Wind and solar energy are now the cheapest forms of energy we can build – with the potential to bring businesses and households reduced costs and security for the future; this is no longer just about the environmental gains. Businesses and households are being crippled by energy prices, yet the government continues to look after their own vested interests – displaying pure ignorance for what our nation needs.

Why Is The Government Refusing To Listen?

Against the advice of professional bodies and experts, the government is using our money to boost oil company profits, while so many people struggle to pay their bills and keep their businesses afloat. Most people know that oil and gas are over – both are a finite resource; their unpredictable supply chain forcing business and household costs to unmanageable heights; whilst also destroying the planet for future generations.

The G20 countries are responsible for 75% of the world’s global emissions and so a cumulative effort is essential if climate targets are to be met. Whilst subsidies for fossil fuels were reduced between 2015 – 2020, the IMF (International Monetary Fund) have stated that $13 million/minute of public money is now supporting the industry – a huge rise – despite world leaders agreeing to phase out these subsidies at the Cop 26 climate summit in 2021.

What Is The Solution To The Energy Crisis

It is now regularly reported that the ‘UK is missing climate targets on nearly every front due to lost leadership on climate action and lack or urgency from the government‘. Scientists are becoming exasperated by foot dragging on action needed to curb global heating, whilst extreme weather conditions highlight the scale of the climate crisis – including droughts, fires and flooding disasters worldwide.

Two factors raise alarm bells and should be considered by Thirsk & Malton constituents as the cost of energy continues to place pressure on our ability to live an affordable lifestyle:

1. Where should energy security rank on the government’s priorities?

Energy security is reported as one of three TOP fiscal risks to our economy in the latest report from the OBR, published last month. Yet the governments current top 5 priorities don’t currently mention either energy security or climate change – both of which fall together, hand in hand. We simply cannot continue to grow our economy or reduce debt whilst irreparably damaging the world’s fragile ecosystems that enable our survival. Voters want to see a robust net zero strategy, they are realising the importance of this – so why is it still not a priority?

2. Why have the government approved 100 North Sea drilling licenses?

The IEA (International Energy Agency) clearly warned in 2021 that no new developments of fossil fuels could be constructed if world targets to limit global temperature increases to 1.5C were to be achieved. The government however continues to go against this advice and has just committed to issue over 100 new north sea oil and gas drilling licenses, jeopardising our international standing as other countries are working hard to reduce their fossil fuel consumption. With no progress also on reducing fossil fuel subsidies, or investing in carbon-free sources of energy – the government is doing the exact opposite of what is in our people’s interests.

Where Are We Heading?

There are of course endless solutions which would take us in the right direction, most of which are widely recognised by professional and scientific experts – and which are also perfectly viable and logical.

I have asked our MP Kevin Hollinrake – when or if any of these initiatives will be implemented by the government:

  • Repurpose fossil fuel subsidies so they have a direct and purposeful benefit on people’s lives (not lining energy giants pockets)
  • Provide targeted welfare payments for those who are struggling most with energy prices/living costs
  • Urgently upgrade the electricity grid infrastructure
  • Offer financial support and incentives for rooftop solar installations on homes and businesses
  • Help households make the transition to low-carbon, home heating solutions
  • Improve energy efficiency and insulation of more homes through the ‘Energy Company Obligation’ scheme
  • Impose higher carbon taxes to raise additional funds for investment into the climate strategy
  • Develop public transport infrastructure and encourage usage
  • Reduce costs of electric car charging and increase capacity
  • Effectively approve, legislate and incentivise on solar and wind farm installations – removing red tape
  • Decarbonise steel production and reduce emissions from other heavy industries
  • Educate people on how to change their ‘high-carbon’ lifestyles
  • Curb development of airports, coalmines and oil/gas fields
  • Raise the specification of all newly constructed buildings to meet climate goals (e.g solar panels/low carbon heating/insulation/energy efficiency measures)

There is currently an exasperation running through the scientific community due the direction of the UK government energy solutions and climate change.

Please comment below to tell us your priorities:

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Did Your MP, Kevin Hollinrake Make The Right Decision By Not Voting?

Richard McLane 3 Comments

I wrote last month – with complete disbelief – when I discovered that our MP did not even turn up to vote on behalf of his constituents, either for or against the official report published, proving Boris Johnson’s lack of integrity and deceit during lockdown. This was a report which presented our then Prime Minister, as possibly the most untrustworthy person to have ever led our country. To read the report findings and see which MPs took the time to vote, click here >>

It’s no coincidence that, whilst the majority of MPs for parties other than the Conservatives, were present to cast their vote on Johnson’s controversial antics – Conservative MPs were rather more elusive, with 63% not turning up to vote on behalf of their constituents.

I doubt there is one person reading this page, that wasn’t affected by the restrictions imposed on us by Boris Johnson during two years of lockdowns. Unable to hold a loved ones hand, unable to socialise, to go to school and for much of the time, leave our homes. Whilst at Downing Street, our prime minister was partying with his “trusted” colleagues.

Why Were We Not A Priority Kevin?

I have politely asked Kevin Hollinrake – as a fellow constituent in the Malton and Thirsk area myself – why he did not represent his voters in this democratic process, which was designed to bring some degree of justice for all those that suffered during the pandemic, while Boris Johnson betrayed our trust.

What could have been more important than his duty to represent the views of his constituents in his area, on such a sensitive and high profile debate?

Kevin kindly took the time to respond to me and explained at the time of the vote, he chose to instead attend the Muslim Business Awards in London. He went on to explain that in effect it was pointless casting a vote because ‘as Mr Johnson is no longer a Member of Parliament, any sanction on him is immaterial, as someone who is no longer a Member cannot be suspended from the House. Therefore, I did not find the vote in itself to hold much tangible weight.’

The overriding message of Kevin’s response seeming to be that voting was a worthless exercise – and in his decision, taking away our right to have our opinion put forward in a political process – which was designed to allow us, as British people, to be represented in parliamentary decisions. If there was no point in voting, then why were MPs given the opportunity to vote, and why did so many MPs from other parties exercise this right?

As has been evident through Kevin’s previous communications – his loyalty to Boris Johnson has been unquestionable – read here to see why. This vote on the privileges committee report was about bringing closure for the people in our area.

Why No Answers? – Voters Must Decide

I responded again to Kevin and asked – did the people of Thirsk and Malton not deserve to have a sense of justice through being represented in parliament? When faced with the decision of doing the right thing by his voters, Kevin’s choice was clear – he put his personal views and his party first .

I went on to ask our MP given he didn’t cast his vote, to confirm how he rates the integrity of Boris Johnson, having read the privileges committee report? – which was interestingly supported by 98% of those MPs who did vote (view full results here).

And finally, I asked how he would have voted had he prioritised his attendance in parliament that day?

It is with great trepidation that I confirm Kevin was unwilling to answer any of these questions. These were fair questions. Questions which us, as his constituents have the right to know the answer for. Kevin clearly doesn’t want us to know these answers.

What Can Be Concluded?

  • He does not want to answer the questions because he prefers to sit on the fence and play his voters.
  • He knows that the answer he will give would not be liked by the vast majority of his constituents, even those who would typically vote for him.
  • His answer would highlight the fact that the very constituents he represents come second to his ministerial role.
  • He is now part of the political class – this is the opposite of what his stated goals were when he went into politics.

The Facts

  • Only in this party could somebody get away with not doing their job, ie not voting on behalf of their constituents.
  • Only in this party would somebody get away with not answering a clear and fair question with a straight answer.
  • In any job apart from that which Kevin holds, the behaviours above would see him lose his job.
  • The behaviour Kevin has displayed is cynical towards all electors and is exactly why we are seeing so many people disengaged with politics.
  • Kevin’s behaviour is in effect damaging to democracy.

What we can be sure of is, Kevin doesn’t want people to know what the truth is behind why it was not his priority to vote on one of the most sensitive issues any government has ever faced in our country.

It’s time that we as voters, make sense of the political embarrassment the Conservative party have brought to our country – and we make the change that is needed.

PLEASE COMMENT BELOW TO CONFIRM – DID KEVIN MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE NOT TO VOTE?

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