UPDATE: The UK’s climate envoy, Rachel Kyte, has amassed over 150,000 air miles since her appointment, equivalent to more than six trips around the globe. This staggering figure comes amid her attendance at key conferences, including COP 30, and has raised significant concerns regarding government spending.
Since taking on the role, Kyte’s flights have cost UK taxpayers a staggering £104,804.65, with approximately 80 percent of that amount attributed to air travel alone. Most of her travel has been in business class, with 28 flights in that category and 21 flights in economy, including one upgraded to premium economy.
The most extravagant journey was a one-way flight from Boston to Hainan, China costing over £6,136 in October for high-level discussions with the Friends of the Paris Agreement group. Similarly, a return trip to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania in February 2024 set the public purse back £6,040.26.
Kyte reports directly to Energy Secretary Ed Miliband and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper. The role of climate envoy was previously eliminated by former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, making Kyte’s current position even more contentious.
A government spokesperson defended her travels, stating, “The special representative for climate was appointed to support ministers in driving action on the government’s priorities on international climate action and energy policy.” They emphasized that her international diplomacy aims to unlock private finance to combat the climate crisis.
However, criticism is mounting. Shadow Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho condemned the government’s actions, calling it “yet more Labour hypocrisy” for failing to adhere to the standards they preach.
Kyte previously expressed her commitment to prioritizing climate action, stating, “This government is committed to reconnecting the UK to the world with climate action as a priority.”
As this situation unfolds, scrutiny over the environmental impact of such extensive air travel continues to grow. The public is left asking whether the costs associated with these international trips align with the government’s stated climate objectives.
Next Steps: Keep an eye on upcoming government reports and potential changes to travel policy in response to increasing public outcry. The debate over accountability and climate action is likely to intensify in the coming days.
