Queen's Speech: Government aims to be 'greenest ever'Energy and Climate Change Secretary Chris Huhne has set himself the objective of making the new government "the greenest ever" as he faced Labour taunts over its commitment to nuclear power.
In renewed debate on the Queen's Speech on 27 May 2010, Mr Huhne said action by the coalition government would define the nation's ability to combat climate change for decades to come.
It was a "scandal" that such a small percentage of power is generated from renewable sources and there must be a "step change" in energy efficiency improvements to homes, he added.
But Mr Huhne came under pressure from Labour MPs aiming to exploit differences between the Tories and the Liberal Democrats over new nuclear power stations .
Former energy minister Malcolm Wicks demanded: "When you look at that transition to a low carbon economy, are you factoring new nuclear in or out?
"And do you recognise that to drive forward new nuclear, the secretary of state has to play a very decisive, hands-on role?"
Mr Huhne, a previous critic of nuclear power, said there was a clear framework for new nuclear in the coalition agreement.
He said this envisaged "a role for new nuclear providing there is no public subsidy".
Source: BBC News
Queen's Speech: Cameron hails 'radical' programme
Prime Minister David Cameron has hailed the Queen's Speech as a "radical programme for a radical government".
The 22 Bills include plans for major reform of schools, police, welfare and Britain's political system.
But cutting the deficit remains the Conservative - Liberal Democrat coalition's "first priority".
Labour's acting leader Harriet Harman said the programme, which reflects compromises between the Tories and Lib Dems, put economic recovery at risk.
It is the first time in the Queen's reign she has set out a coalition government's legislative programme.
Unveiling the proposals earlier in the House of Lords, the 58th time she has done so during her reign, the Queen said: "My government's legislative programme will be based upon the principles of freedom, fairness and responsibility."
Energy and Green Economy Bill
Will promote enhanced energy efficiency, including the roll-out of smart meters. Will promote low-carbon energy production. Most of the measures will apply to England, Wales and Scotland with some devolved elements, "depending on the final detail".
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