Amber Rudd (right) has been promoted to the role of secretary of state for energy and climate change in David Cameron’s first all-Conservative cabinet following the party’s surprise victory in last week’s general election.
The former DECC minister has been appointed to the position vacated by former Liberal Democrat MP Ed Davey. Rudd will lead DECC on issues such as negotiations with EDF over the construction of Hinckley Point C nuclear power plant, delivering the Conservative’s manifesto pledge to “halt the spread of subsidised onshore wind farms” and prepares for December’s UN climate summit in Paris.
The appointment, which is seen as the Tories showing a commitment to a green agenda, has been widely welcomed by industry organisations.
Dr Peter Bonfield, chief executive of the BRE Group, said: “Amber Rudd already has a strong and no-nonsense reputation in the field of climate change. Her business background and focus on government enabling the private sector to take action should pay off.
“I believe that she understands the priority need to reduce demand through energy efficiency first. This reduces stress on our energy supply system which needs an overhaul. Our country is not in good shape on these matters, so let’s hope she fulfils her potential – our society, business community and environment need her to, and with a high degree of urgency.”
These thoughts were echoed by Julie Hirigoyen, chief executive at the UK Green Building Council: “Through her previous role as climate change minister, Amber Rudd clearly demonstrated that she understands the business case for energy efficiency and the low carbon economy, and has a strong commitment to tackling climate change.
“Her appointment is important as it not only represents much-needed continuity between the previous and new regimes on environmental issues, but hopefully indicates the direction of travel of this Conservative government on the green economy and climate change.”
Julie Hirigoyen, chief executive at the UK Green Building Council
“Her appointment is important as it not only represents much-needed continuity between the previous and new regimes on environmental issues, but hopefully indicates the direction of travel of this Conservative government on the green economy and climate change. We look forward to continuing our close collaboration with her,” she continued.
There was also change at the Department for Communities and Local Government where Greg Clark replaces Eric Pickles as secretary and is joined by Mark Francois who will be minister for housing.
Elsewhere, Boris Johnson becomes a member of Cameron’s political cabinet; former culture secretary Sajid Javid replaces former Liberal MP, Vince Cable, as secretary of state for business, innovation and skills, and Priti Patel has been promoted to employment minister at the Department for Work and Pensions.
There is no change in several other roles, with Nick Boles remaining at BIS as minister for skills, Patrick McLoughlin continuing as transport secretary and Nicky Morgan remaining as education secretary.
