Question to the Department for International Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for International Trade, what plans she has to integrate UK Export Finance’s (UKEF) new facility to support clean energy into UKEF's existing energy portfolio to ensure that UKEF energy support is aligned with meeting the Paris Agreement commitment to keep global warming below 1.5°C.

UK Export Finance’s (UKEF) new Direct Lending Facility for clean growth which was announced at the Budget in March will support overseas borrowers to help them finance the purchase of capital goods and/or services from UK exporters and suppliers to support clean growth projects internationally. The eligibility criteria for this new facility are currently being developed but the facility will contribute to supporting overseas countries in transitioning to cleaner energy sources, through renewable, low carbon and green growth solutions. It will complement UKEF’s competitive product range to help ensure no viable UK export fails for lack of finance or insurance, while operating at no net-cost to the taxpayer.

In line with all its export credit support, and UK’s international commitments, UKEF will where applicable, conduct environmental, social and human rights due diligence of projects it is asked to support. This applies equally to its existing and new Direct Lending facilities.