Steve Barclay to have no say on Wisbech incinerator decision
Concern has been raised over a potential conflict of interest with the MP
Last updated 22nd Mar 2024
The Environment Secretary, Steve Barclay, will have no say on a decision on whether a waste incinerator in Wisbech will be built.
Officials have raised concerns about a potential conflict of interest between his role within the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), and as MP for North East Cambridgeshire.
Barclay has previously expressed his opposition to the incinerator, which would be built in his constituency if approved.
Former prime minister Liz Truss, MP for North West Norfolk, has also opposed the plans.
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) gave the plant the green light last month after an examination by the planning inspectorate.
However, the scheme must be granted a permit by the Environment Agency, which is sponsored by Defra, to move forward.
A national news outlet has reported officials raised concerns about a possible, or perceived, conflict between Mr Barclay's constituency and ministerial roles in relation to the plant.
Mark Spencer, a junior minister, will now make a decision on the matter, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said.
Labour has written to Mr Barclay demanding "urgent answers" following the report and saying the matter raises "serious issues, potentially involving a breach of the ministerial code".
Shadow environment secretary Steve Reed said: "It would be an outrage if, as a Government minister, you have abused your position as Secretary of State to prop up your constituency vote.
"It is absolutely vital that ministers keep their duty to act in the national interest separate from their role as a constituency MP."
Mr Barclay's opposite number also called on him to publish correspondence from any dealings he may have had with the EA regarding the incinerator.
A Defra spokesman said: "The Secretary of State is recused from the decision. No decision has been taken. Mark Spencer is the minister responsible and would take any decision on this issue."