The report was moved by Councillor Whelton and formally seconded by Councillor Irons.

The Liberal Democrat amendment as set out in agenda item 32 was moved by Councillor Gould and seconded by Councillor Fairclough.

Councillor Holden spoke on the item.

The Liberal Democrat amendment was put to a vote and fell – votes in favour: 23, votes against: 34, abstentions: 1.

The original recommendations were then put to a vote and were carried – votes in favour: 58, votes against: 0, abstentions: 1.

RESOLVED:

1.    That Council adopts Merton’s 2020 Climate Strategy and Action Plan (see Appendix 1 to the Council report).

2.    That responsibility for overseeing the delivery of the 2020 Climate Strategy and Action Plan is delegated to Cabinet.

3.       That Council notes the significant cost to the Council and to the residents and businesses of Merton to become zero carbon as well as the need for a national Green recovery programme to shift towards a zero carbon economy and a more sustainable future.

4.    That the Council lobby for further funding and policy changes at national level to support the delivery of the 2020 Climate Strategy and Action Plan.

5.       That delegated authority is given to the Director of Environment and Regeneration, Chris Lee in consultation with Cllr Martin Whelton, the Cabinet member for Regeneration, Housing and Climate Change to make minor amendments before publication.