MP challenges Minister to support Cumbria Action for Sustainability to help insulate homes

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has secured a meeting with the Minister for Energy Security and Net Zero, Justin Tomlinson, to discuss how to better insulate more homes in Cumbria.

On the floor of the House of Commons today, Tim praised the work of local charity Cumbria Action for Sustainability and asked the Minister to support them to help households become more energy efficient.

Speaking during Energy, Security and Net Zero questions in Parliament, Tim said: “Communities in Westmorland cannot afford for us not to be reducing carbon emissions.

“I think of communities such as Kirkby Stephen, Appleby and Kendal, all of which are listed as energy crisis hotspots. That means they have below average incomes, but above average energy prices.

“There are over 10,000 homes in need of loft insulation and 6,940 homes in need of cavity wall insulation in my communities.

“Will the Minister give resources to the excellent Cumbria Action for Sustainability to meet that need and decrease bills, and also perhaps revise the rules for ECO4 so the scheme better fits older homes in rural areas such as ours?”

In response, Justin Tomlinson MP said: “I thank the honourable member. We agree on the principles.

“The Government are proud to have taken energy-efficient homes from 14% to 50%.

“Local initiatives can play a key part in that and I would be interested to learn more about the project he highlighted.”