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Reform mayor outlines his position on green energy

David McKenna
BBC News
Andrew Spence
Local Democracy Reporting Service
BBC Luke Campbell smiles at the camera after winning the mayoral election in Hull and East Yorkshire. He is wearing a beige blazer with a white T-shirt. He is standing in front of a stage that includes a podium and a black backdrop.BBC
Luke Campbell said he would always put the region before party politics

The new mayor of Hull and East Yorkshire has said he would always put the region before party politics.

Asked during a meeting of the combined authority's executive board about his position on green energy, Reform UK's Luke Campbell said: "I represent the people of this region, and if that can create local jobs and help local businesses that is what I will do."

Campbell also told the meeting that all types of energy – including nuclear and hydrogen power – should be considered.

Reform UK previously said it would impose taxes on the renewable energy sector under its plans to scrap the country's net-zero target.

In February, deputy leader Richard Tice claimed net-zero policies were to blame for higher energy bills and deindustrialisation, adding that renewable energy was a "massive con".

Campbell previously said he did not think net-zero was achievable.

However, in answer to a question from a member of the public at Wednesday's meeting, the former Olympic gold medallist boxer said: "I have consistently ed the region in green energy for local business, creating local jobs.

"I will keep on that same track – I was brought in by the people of this region."

At the meeting, the board approved a bid to enter into a funding agreement with the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and bid for up to £1.6m for public sector renewable energy projects, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

EPA Luke Campbell and Nigel Farage stand in a boxing ring wearing black boxing gloves. Campbell, on the left, is smiling as he wears a dark jacket and a white T-shirt. Farage, on the right, is wearing a green tweed jacket, a shirt and a maroon tie.EPA
Luke Campbell with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage

The meeting was attended by Mike Ross, leader of Hull City Council, and Anne Handley, leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council.

Campbell described them as "two very good, strong leaders" who were "ready to fight for this region", adding: "Including myself, you've got the third one."

As head of the combined authority, Campbell is responsible for housing, public transport, infrastructure, economic development, business, skills and regeneration.

Listen to highlights from Hull and East Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here.

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