TRADE union leaders have urged the government to “listen carefully” to the outcomes of Britain’s first citizens’ assembly on climate change as it begins tomorrow.

Climate Assembly UK, a House of Commons project made up of 110 people selected to reflect the British population, convenes this weekend in Birmingham for the first of four sessions.

Commissioned by six parliamentary committees, the group is asked to devise an action plan on how Britain will achieve carbon net-zero by 2050 — a target enshrined in law. 

This weekend they will hear from experts and advocates on cutting emissions in sectors such as building and transport.

The assembly has received support from TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady, who said it was “vital” that the voices of working people are taken into account “to shape a just transition to a net-zero carbon future.”

Fire Brigades Union chief Matt Wrack also gave his backing and stressed that the recommendations of the assembly must be implemented.

He said: “Firefighters are on the front line in this emergency, tackling flooding and wildfires here in the UK and across the globe. 

“The devastating wildfires in Australia are a clear warning: urgent steps are needed to save the planet.

“The government must listen carefully and urgently address the recommendations of the assembly.”

Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom said she “looks forward to seeing what conclusions the assembly reaches,” but environmental campaigners remain sceptical.

Earlier this week, Extinction Rebellion expressed concerns that there are no guarantees the government will actually follow the recommendations.

The outcomes of the assembly’s four sessions will be released at the end of April.