COLUMN by Thornbury and Yate MP Claire Young 

This week, the new Parliamentary Select Committees were formally inaugurated.

These are important bodies within Parliament, who focus on scrutinising Ministers, investigating key issues that need addressing.

There are several high-profile committees, including the Health and Social Care Select Committee, which are each chaired by an MP.

The make-up of these committees is done proportionally, with MPs from the three main parties having seats on them.

I had the honour of being elected as one of two Liberal Democrats to sit on the important Energy Security and Net Zero committee.

This is a crucial area, particularly given the Government’s aim of achieving 100% clean power by 2030.

Being on the committee means that I will be attending regular meetings every week, examining what decisions are being made at the heart of government and the impact they will have on people up and down the country.

The committee is focused on three key areas; addressing climate change, protecting our energy security, and helping ease the pressure on households.

In short, we’re focused on keeping the lights on and getting bills down.

This is an incredibly important, as far too many people are still struggling to cope with steep energy prices which is putting a real squeeze on people’s finances.

This is particularly true for older residents, who are still reeling from the decision to cut the Winter Fuel Allowance.

My work on the committee is something I shall do alongside my other various duties as your MP and offers me a unique chance to help drive change in this important area.

Climate change is the biggest threat facing our planet, so reaching Net Zero is key.

I am excited to get stuck in and make the most of my new role, and I hope we’ll be able to make a real difference in the years ahead.