DECC closes as Clark gets new energy position

Greg Clark has been given the new position of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Secretary.

The former Communities Secretary has seen his cabinet position changed as part of new Prime Minister Theresa May's full reshuffle. His appointment also marks the closure of the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC), with UK energy policy being transferred to the new ministry.

Clark has some experience in the sector having served as shadow DECC Secretary between 2008 and 2010.

Clark is quoted to have said: “I am thrilled to have been appointed to lead this new department charged with delivering a comprehensive industrial strategy, leading government’s relationship with business, furthering our world-class science base, delivering affordable, clean energy and tackling climate change.”

James Court, of the Renewable Energy Association, responded to the appointment of Clark saying: “We are delighted Greg Clark has been appointed the new Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy. He previously showed real vision as the Shadow Energy Secretary and we look forward to working with him once again in order to get things moving on the deployment of new renewable energy infrastructure.”

However, the closure of DECC has been controversial. Former Labour leader Ed Miliband expressed his disappointment at the department closure, tweeting: "DECC abolition just plain stupid. Climate not even mentioned in new department title. Matters because departments shape priorities shape outcomes."

Friends of the Earth CEO Craig Bennett said shortly after the announcement: "This is shocking news. Less than a day into the job and it appears that the new Prime Minister has already downgraded action to tackle climate change, one of the biggest threats we face. This week the government’s own advisors warned of ever growing risks to our businesses, homes and food if we don’t do more to cut fossil fuel pollution.

“If Theresa May supports strong action on climate change, as she’s previously said, it’s essential that this is made a top priority for the new business and energy department and across government.”

Elsewhere, Andrea Leadsom, the Conservative leadership candidate who handed victory to May, is the new Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary, replacing new Home Office head Amber Rudd.