The decision to approve a new coal mine in Cumbria is appalling.

This mine – which will extract coal for steelmaking – is not wanted by UK industry. 85% of the coal will be exported. It also massively undermines our reputation on climate change, coming just weeks after the UK called for “clear follow-through on the phase down of coal” at the COP27 climate summit.

In its defence of this decision, the Government appears to have justified approving the mine on the grounds that it is not responsible for the emissions from burning the coal that is mined. That is like claiming producing cigarettes is not harmful if you do not smoke them.

Labour will continue to oppose new fossil fuel projects like this coal mine and push for good, green jobs instead.

Watch clip here.