> Please see our response on the SNP announcing they are u-turning on the wood-burning stoves ban following pressure from Jamie Halcro Johnston MSP and the Scottish Conservatives.
[Scottish Parliament, 19.09.2024] Scottish Conservative deputy rural affairs spokesperson Jamie Halcro Johnston MSP, who led parliamentary opposition to the ban, said: “This long overdue climbdown by the SNP on their deeply flawed ban is a welcome move.
“Sustained pressure from the Scottish Conservatives, including during my members debate in Parliament and strong opposition from across our rural and island communities, has now forced ministers into a humiliating U-turn.
“The consequences of imposing such a ban on installing woodburning stoves in new homes would have been devastating for those that rely on them, especially when there are periods of extreme weather.
“There was particular anger and concern from communities across the Highlands and Islands at a ban which totally ignored the unique challenges those living in our region experience. It was policy made in Edinburghwith no consideration for rural or island life.
“However, with the lifting of this ban still only temporary, the Scottish Conservatives will continue to urge the SNP to do the right thing and make it permanent.”
ENDS
Notes to Editors
The letter from the Minister for Climate Action to local authorities can be found here: New Build Heat Standard (NBHS): direction - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)
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