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Climate Change Bill [HL]

I very much hope that the Minister will take on board this amendment. One problem that we often underestimate is the financial impact of not dealing with certain gases. Hydrofluorocarbons—HFCs—are quite extensively used in the production of strawberries in order to prolong their growing season. Without them it would be very difficult to grow strawberries in this country in the way that we have. They have a financial benefit and were exempted by the Government on the basis of their extending the growing season for strawberries. However, as a carbon-equivalent gas, it has a massive impact on the environment. They have the effect of carbon but by many magnitudes. Dealing with such gases by means of the affirmative resolution procedure would be a positive step. One problem we will face is the financial implication of including certain gases while excluding others. We should not shy away from the difficulties that some sections of agriculture will face depending on whether use of these gases is banned or allowed. If we are to allow their use then we should understand the implications for carbon equivalence.