Michael Gove faces cabinet backlash over plans for ‘Green Brexit’
2 min read
Michael Gove is facing the wrath of ministers over his plans for a so-called “Green Brexit” as his colleagues in cabinet fear an increase in red tape.
The Environment Secretary has already committed the UK to an independent environmental body to make sure green protections are embedded before the UK quits the bloc.
However, Philip Hammond has raised concerns over the cost and bureaucracy such laws would generate for the UK.
Chris Grayling is also said to have concerns over the implications green legislation would have on the construction of new roads and railway lines.
Greg Clark is also said to be worried over environmental legislation’s ability to generate red tape.
An MP who is an ally of Mr Gove told The Daily Telegraph that the opposition to his plans is "stupid and short-sighted".
The MP said: "We have said that we will maintain, and in some areas exceed them. It is the right thing to do and it has the Prime Minister's backing.
"Did they learn nothing from the election campaign? People care about the environments, we are way in front of Labour on this."
Mr Gove announced plans to commit the UK to the EU’s existing environmental laws after Brexit earlier this year.
However, he added the laws were not enough without an independent body to oversee them.
Currently the European Commission oversees environmental legislation but Mr Gove plans to replace it with this new watchdog.
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