What action will the Minister take to ensure that legislation to control the burning of fossil fuels will not adversely impact steam railways in Wales?
The matter of supplies of coal for heritage steam railways was raised during both the Defra and Welsh Government's consultations on reducing emissions from domestic burning. While Defra provided confirmation and assurance that this sector would be exempt, it would be the Welsh Government's intention to make it explicit within any proposed legislation that the heritage sector, including steam railways, is exempt from any restrictions on the sale of coal.
I am fully committed to delivering this Government’s objectives on carbon reductions and clean air. This sector, as with all sectors of the economy, will need to play their part in achieving carbon reductions to net zero by 2050.