30022 (2023). Hon Dr Megan Woods to the Minister of Climate Change

30022 (2023). Hon Dr Megan Woods to the Minister of Climate Change: Does the Minister agree with His Holiness Pope Francis that the world must demonstrate "a clear and tangible political will that can lead to a decisive acceleration of ecological transition" achieved through "energy efficiency; renewable sources; the elimination of fossil fuels; and education in lifestyles that are less dependent on the latter," if so, how does his Government's decision to restart new offshore oil and gas exploration align with that statement?

Hon Simon Watts: I agree that clear and tangible political will to deliver decisive action on climate change is a necessity. I stand by the policies of our Government. Gas is an important transition fuel for maintaining New Zealand’s energy security while we electrify our economy. Dependence on imports erodes our security and increases our emissions. We are acting to avoid that.