Commenting ahead of his speech, Mr Foster said:

“The UK needs to address climate change concerns as part of our international obligations. Gas has a major role to play in how successfully we reduce our carbon emissions, especially as 85 per cent of homes use gas for their heating and cooking needs.

Low carbon gas, biogases and hydrogen, offer a route that keeps the consumer warm, minimises energy bills and cuts carbon. The UK needs to sign up to this forward-thinking agenda.”