Transport

The Government Minister, Mike Kane, opened the debate by outlining the proposed Renewable Transport Fuel Obligations (Sustainable Aviation Fuel) Order 2024. He explained that sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is one of the most effective ways to decarbonise flights, with 70% less greenhouse gas emissions than traditional jet fuel. The mandate will create demand for SAF in the UK, supporting the decarbonisation of the aviation industry. The Minister stated that the mandate will require 2% of jet fuel to be from sustainable sources in 2025, rising to 10% by 2030 and 22% by 2040. He highlighted the economic benefits, estimating the SAF industry could generate up to 60,000 new jobs and £10 billion in gross value added by 2050. The Minister argued this is a crucial step in the Government's mission to make the UK a clean energy superpower and deliver on its net zero commitments. Responding for the official opposition, Greg Smith MP expressed broad support for the measures, noting they build on plans set out by the previous government. However, he raised concerns about the potential impact on passenger ticket prices, urging the Government to ensure increases are kept to a minimum. Smith also called for more support and ambition around the development of 100% synthetic aviation fuels, to position the UK as a global leader in this technology. The debate that followed saw broad cross-party consensus on the need to decarbonise aviation through the use of sustainable fuels. Members discussed the importance of ensuring the strictest sustainability standards, onshoring the economic benefits, and accelerating the transition to more advanced fuel technologies like power-to-liquid. There was some debate around the level of ambition, with the Liberal Democrats arguing the 2030-2040 targets could be more stretching. Overall, the House welcomed the introduction of the SAF mandate as an important step, while also highlighting areas where the Government could go further to maximise the economic and environmental benefits for the UK. The Minister responded positively to the constructive feedback, indicating a willingness to keep the policy under review and work closely with industry to drive progress.