Lithium Mineral Rights: Weardale

03 Apr

Question

The parliamentary question session centered around the Church of England's ownership of mineral rights to lithium in Weardale and its potential contributions to local economic growth. The discussion was initiated by Sam Rushworth, who focused on the implications of lithium extraction in achieving UK's net zero targets. The response, provided by Marsha De Cordova, highlighted the Church of England's active involvement through Northern Lithium Ltd., an exploration company that holds an option over the Church's mineral rights in Bishop Auckland. The Church's investment in the local economy was underscored, alongside the transparency in mineral rights registration. The session concluded with a commitment to further discussions, ensuring local communities benefit from natural resources.

Outcome

The session resulted in a commitment from the Church Commissioners to engage in further discussions regarding the benefits of mineral extraction to local communities. Although specific figures or new commitments were not extensively detailed, the willingness to meet and discuss future strategies was emphasized.

Key Contributions

Sam Rushworth

Labour

Raised the question regarding the Church of England's mineral rights in Weardale and their role in economic growth.

Marsha De Cordova

Confirmed the Church Commissioners' involvement through granting mineral rights to Northern Lithium Ltd.

Original Transcript

Sam Rushworth

Bishop Auckland

Lab

Question

UIN: 903592

9. Whether the Church of England is taking steps to help ensure that its ownership of mineral rights to lithium in Weardale contributes to economic growth in that area.

Marsha De Cordova

10:30

The Church Commissioners granted an option over its mineral rights in Bishop Aukland to a specialist exploration company, Northern Lithium Ltd, in 2023. It has invested significantly in the local economy, which is expected to increase as exploration continues.

Sam Rushworth

10:30

I thank my hon. Friend for that answer. I really welcome the work that has been done by Northern Lithium in Weardale in my constituency. Critical minerals will play an increasingly important role in the UK’s transition to net zero and in our economy.

With the Church of England owning vast swathes of mineral rights across the country, it is really important that there is transparency and that the Church plays an active role in ensuring local populations benefit from the wealth beneath their feet, as part of a just transition.

Will she meet me to discuss that?

Marsha De Cordova

Yes, I am very happy to meet my hon. Friend. The Church Commissioners have transparently registered all mineral rights with the Land Registry.

I cannot comment on the specifics, as I am sure he would agree, but I am very happy to meet him and will ensure there are officials from the Church investment team, too.

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All content derived from official parliamentary records