We asked the local parliamentary candidates for our new constituency (Bicester & Woodstock) to respond to questions about the following ten environmental topics. Click on the links to see the answers we received.

So far we’ve received detailed responses from the Green, Labour and Lib Dem candidates. They are recorded in the order they were received. Tim Funnell (Social Democratic Party candidate) has also submitted a general response – which can be found below. We will publish further responses if they’re forthcoming!

1. Strategic priorities for tackling the climate crisis at the local level

2. Eco requirements on new build developments

3. Encouraging a more local, circular and sustainable economy

4. Improving biodiversity and helping nature’s recovery

5. Large reductions to funding of the Canal & River Trust

6. Net zero / zero carbon commitments and plans

7. The Botley West solar farm proposals

8. The Oxford United stadium proposal and green belt policy

9. Regular nuclear warhead convoys along the A34

10. Favourite local place to go to enjoy nature!

Tim Funnell (Social Democratic Party): General response:

“I am a scientist, member of CPRE, the Oxfordshire wildlife trust, and the Oxfordshire beekeepers association. This is certainly a topic I am passionate about but I struggle with the hypocrisy of the “Climate Crisis” rhetoric which seems to prefer to cover our green spaces with solar panels, holds an obsession with a single atmospheric gas and supports the prolific polluting of non-recyclable batteries for electric cars. Personally, I feel we should be focussing less on the hubristic prevention of climate change (as a student of geology, this will be inevitable) and rather focus holistically on solutions to deal with changing climates, protect ecosystems and how best to preserve each local environment for future generations.

I want to thank you for everything you do, and I am pleased that there is such conviction in the community”

Rupert Harrison (Conservative & Unionist Party): No response

Ian Middleton (Green Party): Response received 👍

Calum Miller (Liberal Democrats): Response received 👍

Veronica Oakeshott (Labour Party): Response received 👍

Augustine Obodo (Reform UK): No response.