COP26 president: Who are the runners and riders?

Michael Gove

The former environment secretary is understood to be the frontrunner for the role, which has already been rejected by former prime minister David Cameron and former Conservative Party leader William Hague, as reported by ENDS last week. Gove’s good reputation among green groups and strong grasp of policy detail may serve in his favour for the role. Sources close to Gove told the Telegraph that he is “relaxed either way” over whether he is given the job, however there are concerns that he is too vital in the government’s Brexit preparations to take on responsibility for the climate talks.