Rishi Sunak could still attend COP27 climate summit

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak could still attend the COP27 climate summit, sources have told the BBC.

The PM is understood to want to attend the conference in Egypt and could go if enough progress if his diary allows.

On Thursday No 10 said Mr Sunak was not expected to attend "due to other pressing domestic commitments including preparations for the autumn Budget".

However, the announcement prompted criticism, including from the UK's COP26 president Alok Sharma.

Asked on BBC Breakfast whether the prime minister could attend, Environment Minister Mark Spencer said Mr Sunak had "a huge inbox", with challenges including the economy and rising global energy and food prices.

"His focus at the moment is dealing with the autumn statement and the government's response to those global challenges," he said.

Mr Spencer added: "I'm sure if his diary allows he would want to go but at this moment in time don't quite know if he's going to be have time to do that.

"But rest assured there'll be serious ministers out there and big hitters because the UK's very keen to play its part in dealing with the challenges we face in the environment globally."

Asked if he would like to see Mr Sunak attend, Mr Spencer said: "If he's got time to do that."

COP27 will take place in Sharm el-Sheikh, in Egypt, from 6 to 18 November - finishing the day after Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is due to set out the UK's tax and spending plans in his autumn statement.