Politico  ‘Environment Secretary says government will consult on proposals for a new policy statement that sets out post-Brexit environmental principles, such as ‘polluter pays’

Michael Gove has confirmed work is underway to address one of the biggest concerns green campaigners have about the potential impact of Brexit on the UK’s environmental policy landscape.

Writing on Politico, the Environment Secretary today reiterated his commitment to delivering a “Green Brexit”, arguing that “if Brexit is our chance to take back control of our laws and our money, Green Brexit is our chance to give the environment a voice in this time of national renewal”.

He stressed the UK would “preserve and where appropriate extend” effective EU environmental policies, and also confirmed the government would look to address long-standing fears that the environmental principles that underpin EU regulations could be ditched post-Brexit.

Critics have warned the government’s planned Withdrawal Bill may transition EU environmental legislation into UK law, but it lacks both an adequate enforcement mechanism and a means of transferring the underlying EU principles that are meant to shape future regulations and reforms.

Principles such as ‘polluter pays’ and the ‘precautionary principle’ have been widely credited by green businesses and campaigners with being key to ensuring environmental legislation is not watered down post-Brexit.

Writing in his article today, Gove sought to alleviate these concerns. “We… want to ensure that environmental principles continue to be set out in a single place – at present, this is in the EU treaties – after we leave,” he said. “The principles cover issues such as sustainable development, for example, and the important ‘polluter pays’ understanding which holds that those responsible for damage must pay to put it right.”

He added that the government “will be consulting on a new policy statement setting out the environmental principles which will guide us”. However, no further details were provided on the timing of the consultation. Gove also reiterated previously stated plans to reform the Common Agricultural Policy to reward landowners for delivering environmental benefits; reform the Common Fisheries Policy to tackle over-fishing in UK waters and better support coastal communities; and establish a new post-Brexit environmental watchdog. “[The] consultation will also cover the key areas of governance and accountability,” Gove confirmed. “It’s important to us and to future generations that environmental oversight is strong. Currently the role is played, albeit imperfectly, by European institutions and we will look to replace it.”