Hitchin MP Bim Afolami has backed the government's ambition to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

In a letter sent to chancellor Rishi Sunak ahead of the Comprehensive Spending Review and Budget due this autumn, Mr Afolami added his support for measures to tackle climate change and restore nature as part of a green economic recovery from coronavirus.

The town's MP is part of the Conservative Environment Network (CEN) Parliamentary Caucus, an independent forum for conservatives who support decarbonisation and conservation.

"The UK has a world-leading record on reducing emissions," said Mr Afolami, adding: "But we know that we must do more to prevent the worst consequences of climate change and to stop the loss of our wildlife.

"That's why I've written to the government calling for a series of policies that will help us to build back better.

"This autumn the Chancellor will be announcing many measures to kickstart the economy as we recover from coronavirus, and I've urged him to prioritise measures that will support clean, green industries across the country, helping us to meet our environmental goals while creating sustainable, secure jobs."

Research from the Local Government Association estimates more than 3,100 local jobs will be created by 2050 in Hertfordshire in low carbon and renewable energy sectors as part of a national mission to reach net zero.

A recent study by Oxford University, which included a survey of G20 finance ministers and central bank officials, also showed that green investments could offer the best long-term economic returns for government spending in comparison to normal fiscal stimulus options.

Mr Afolami's submission included ideas such as providing long-term and significantly increased funding for active travel and public transport infrastructure, to build on recent funding commitments to further help tackle air pollution - as well as funding the skills required for 'net zero' and to repair the planet's relationship with nature, by launching a Net Zero Skills Review to help equip young people with the necessary skills for the future low carbon jobs market.

A Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR) is a key part of the government's budgeting framework enabling them to set out their spending priorities, normally over three years, including funding for departments so that they can plan ahead.

The chancellor has outlined the priorities for this CSR including the investment in technologies 'that will support the government's ambition to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050'.