"It’s good news that Coronavirus cases are coming down once again - and even though Covid hasn’t left our community and probably never will, we are working hard at the global level to tackle this health issue in an accelerated way. The same is true for tackling the other global challenges of our time such as climate change and conserving nature. They go hand in hand as has been seen at COP26, one of the biggest conferences we will ever host in the UK – with world leaders coming together to ensure that the race against climate change is one that we win together. I was in Glasgow last week in my role as Secretary of State for Work & Pensions as the UK is leading the way in harnessing the power of pensions to invest in green infrastructure. We are the first country in the world to introduce mandatory reporting of climate risks for pensions. This means that from now on the risks associated with pension investments on the climate must be assessed. We have, therefore, set out how we expect they should realign their reporting to help with internationally agreed global targets. Mobilising the finance of pension schemes to keep 1.5 alive, channelling investment towards our net zero target and securing good outcomes for savers. Leading to prosperity for people and the planet.
In order to provide continuous, low carbon electricity, the government has also recently introduced the Nuclear Energy (Financing) Bill, which could be used for the delivery of Sizewell C. Under the existing mechanism, developers have to finance the construction of a nuclear project and only begin receiving revenue when the station starts generating electricity. This has led to the cancellation of recent potential projects. The new funding model, however, will ensure that new nuclear can be financed by British pension funds and institutional investors, spreading the cost. This will reduce our reliance on overseas developers and lower costs for consumers. This is a tried and tested method. I remember when I was a DEFRA minister, we used it to finance the Thames Tideway water project. So, it has successfully funded other big infrastructure projects in the recent years.
Finally, a boost for Halesworth residents who were concerned that it has been difficult for them to book their booster jabs. I’ve been pressing the case with Chief Executive of Waveney & Norfolk CCG, Melanie Craig. I’m, therefore, delighted that Cutlers Hill pharmacy is now part of the national booking system – allowing those eligible to book slots directly rather than waiting to hear from their GP. The GP will also continue to host clinics. It’s really important that all those eligible get their third jab."