Are Russia tensions affecting UK’s Antarctic policy? MPs to quiz Ministers
On Wednesday 8 May, MPs will quiz Government ministers on the UK’s presence in Antarctica, in light of tensions with Russia and the impact of climate change.
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.
Meeting details
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.