Are Russia tensions affecting UK’s Antarctic policy? MPs to quiz Ministers

• Watch ParliamentTV: The UK and the Antarctic Environment
• Read all written evidence relating to inquiry
• Inquiry: The UK and the Antarctic Environment
• Environmental Audit Sub-Committee on Polar Research

In the final evidence session of the Sub-Committee’s inquiry into the UK and the Antarctic Environment, members will hear evidence from ministers at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.

Members may ask how increased tensions with Russia, following its invasion of Ukraine, have affected the UK’s activities in Antarctica. The Sub-Committee heard in written evidence about worries from observers that Russia was “prospecting” in the continent, in a potential threat to the permanent ban on mining.

Meanwhile climate change, although more complex and less well understood than in the Arctic, is having a rapid impact in Antarctica. Its response to warming seas and air in the coming years could have significant consequences for the UK, as rising sea levels potentially alter weather patterns and erode coastlines. However, research led by UK scientists is helping to advance global understanding of environmental change in the continent.

MPs are likely to ask ministers how the UK is contributing to international negotiations on climate change in Antarctica and whether the treaty system that governs the continent will need to be updated. They may also ask how the Government plans to responds to biosecurity risks in Antarctica such as invasive species.

Witnesses

Wednesday 8 May 2024, 2.15pm, Committee Room 6, Palace of Westminster    

• Andrew Griffith MP, Minister of State, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
• David Rutley MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

Further information

• About Parliament: Select committees
• Visiting Parliament: Watch committees

Image credit: UK Parliament/Dawn Amey