1st February 2025 Newsletter
Climate and Nature Bill Update
You may have heard about recent developments in Parliament concerning the Climate and Nature Bill. Unfortunately, the Labour Government signalled that they were not prepared to let the Bill pass under any circumstances.
I was proud to be part of the group of MPs who handed over the CAN Bill Zero Hour petition to 10 Downing Street in the summer of 2024. I was delighted when my Liberal Democrat colleague, Dr Roz Savage MP, submitted the bill as a Private Members Bill.
Despite the bill not passing through Parliament on this occasion, Dr Savage was able to secure some key commitments from the Government during the debate. These include a commitment to meet with her to discuss how some of her demands could be included in future Labour bills, and the reaffirming of commitments on nature restoration, including pledges on oceans, more reporting on consumption emissions, more engagement with climate NGOs and a more joined-up approach to climate and nature rather than treating them separately.
The Liberal Democrats remain fully committed to tackling both the climate and nature crises. Our 2024 manifesto sets out ambitious targets, including cutting greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2045, protecting 30% of UK land and sea for nature by 2030, and doubling the size of the Protected Area network by 2050.
Given Labour’s views on the bill, rather than forcing the debate to close prematurely, a compromise was reached. This resulted in an Adjournment Vote, which simply delays the debate to another date, now set for 11 July.
This keeps the bill alive and ensures Roz’s negotiations with the Government can continue. It is unfortunate that the Labour Government will make us all wait to pass such an important bill, but at least we have a date to work towards.
I know how important tackling the climate and nature crises is to residents across Guildford constituency, and I will continue to work hard in Parliament to ensure these issues remain at the top of the agenda. Thank you again for writing to me on this vital topic.
Standing Up for our Creative Industries
On 27th January 2025, I had the privilege of speaking in Parliament about something I care deeply about—the UK’s creative industries.
Guildford is a fantastic and varied creative hub for the South East that is often described as the Hollywood of the UK gaming industry. Our studios have had extraordinary success, producing world-renowned games like Little Big Planet, Baldur’s Gate 3, and No Man’s Sky.
However, there is much more we can do to support this sector and the creative arts industry more widely and ensure its continued growth. UK gaming companies tell me they are increasingly struggling to find people with the skills they need.
That’s why I’m backing calls for a Digital Creativity GCSE—a vital step in ensuring our education system prepares young people for careers in gaming, visual effects, and other digital creative fields.
I also spoke in support of the many creatives who have raised concerns with me that the government’s proposed changes to an opt out copyright model in order to support the development of AI in the UK will undermine creatives’ intellectual property right. We need to take the global lead on this issue because our other nations are watching the approach we take on it and will follow.
Community News
Guildford Cathedral welcomes its new Dean!
On Sunday, 26th January, I was delighted to attend the installation of Guildford Cathedral's new Dean, the Venerable Bob Cooper. It was a fantastic afternoon, and I wish Bob all the best in his new role.
Nationwide Building Society Dementia Nurse Clinics
I recently visited Nationwide in Guildford to learn more about the specialist dementia support they are offering in over 200 branches through their partnership with Dementia UK.
Admiral Nurses will provide health and financial guidance in branch or over the telephone.
You can learn more about the support they are offering here.
Opportunity for survivors to share their experiences with GP care after domestic abuse
Healthwatch Surrey wants to better understand access to and experience of GP practices for people who have experienced, or are experiencing, domestic abuse. If you have been affected and feel comfortable doing so, please share your experience through this online survey.
Railway Engineering works
From the 1st to 16th February, railway engineering works will be taking place between Guildford and Reigate.
These works include renewing the tracks over a bridge on the River Wey in Shalford, stabilising an embankment in Gomshall and renewing the signalling and level crossings along the line.
This will include closures to the level crossings that are being upgraded, and signed diversions will be in place.
During full road closures, pedestrians won’t have access to the crossings, but minibuses will be arranged to help any pedestrians around the closure.
Journeys will be affected. You can learn more about the works here.
If you need me...
If you would like to get in touch or need my help, then I would love to hear from you. You can reach me at zoe.franklin.mp@parliament.uk.