Chester South and Eddisbury

The UK General Election took place 4 July 2024.

At Chester and District Friends of the Earth we contacted local MP candidates to ask them 4 questions about the climate, so voters across Chester and the surrounding areas know how candidates plan to address some of the most urgent issues we face today; the climate and nature crises.

Check out the Chester South and Eddisbury MP candidate responses below in alphabetical order by party.

Question 1. The UK has a commitment to reduce emissions by at least 68% by 2030 (compared to 1990). Would you honour this target, and what would you prioritise to achieve it?

Independent Candidate, Gillian Edwards

Yes – Electric car infrastructure and lowering purchase prices

Question 2. The UK has some of the coldest and costliest homes to heat in Europe. Draughty homes waste energy and money and are causing serious impacts on people’s health, costing the NHS tens of billions. Would you commit to a comprehensive street-by-street home insulation programme to cut bills and emissions, and support the NHS?

Independent Candidate, Gillian Edwards

YesI’m passionate about rewilding and stopping river pollution

Question 3. The environment around us is in decline – forests are being cut down, pollinators are dying, soils and waters are leached of nutrients and loaded with pollutants – and it’s now impacting our health. How will you ensure fresh air, clean water and access to green spaces?

Independent Candidate, Gillian Edwards

I’m passionate about rewilding and stopping river pollution

Question 4. How would you ensure the UK plays its part in global efforts to tackle the climate and nature crises? Would you support a new law preventing corporations committing environmental and human rights abuses in their supply chains?

Independent Candidate, Gillian Edwards

Yes – I’m a member of the Cheshire West and Chester climate emergency taskforce