The European Union action to renovate homes, boost the UK economy, create more than 100,000 jobs and lift millions out of fuel poverty, has received the backing of North West Labour MEP Afzal Khan.

On his first visit to Knauf Insulation's factory in St Helens, where he saw how products are manufactured and discussed the company's work to champion energy efficiency in the UK and Europe, Mr Khan said more could be done at an EU level to support the UK’s low carbon economy.

During Mr Khan’s visit, he also signed the Renovate Europe Campaign manifesto to Stop Energy Waste in Buildings - a campaign that Knauf Insulation actively supports across Europe.

Mr Khan, said: "Investing in our low carbon economy is vital to protecting manufacturing jobs like those here in St Helens and across the UK. That's why I'm backing Renovate Europe's Campaign, urging the EU to tackle energy waste and to make everyone's home energy efficient.

"It was great to visit the factory to see the manufacturing process up close and to learn about the innovative way that the products are then packaged, ready to be sent to merchants, distributors, installers and contractors across Northern Europe.

"I will be working in the European Parliament to ensure everyone has access to a decent home that is low-carbon and affordable to keep warm, while tackling climate change and creating jobs."

Josh Robson, head of public affairs at Knauf Insulation, said: "We are very pleased to have been able to provide Afzal with his first ever factory tour here at St Helens, and it is fantastic that he is keen to support our wider work to improve homes.

"Improving the energy efficiency of homes is a win-win for families and the UK economy, lowering bills and creating new jobs.

"If your home is under insulated, your energy bill this winter will be higher than it needs to be, even if you switch supplier. This is a reality for millions of families, and is why it is so important for the infrastructure that we live in - our homes - to be recognised as a priority in the infrastructure review announced by George Osborne last week.”

Sian Hughes, head of EU public affairs for Knauf Insulation, added: "The fact that Afzal has also pledged his support to the Renovate Europe manifesto will help to drive awareness among policy and decision makers in Brussels and across Europe of the enormous benefits of renovation.

“The next 12 months are going to be very important as the European Union looks at ways to deliver their 2030 Energy and Climate targets, while delivering on ambitious jobs and growth objectives. Renovation ticks all the boxes. We will be pushing the European Commission to raise the ambition for buildings as they look to develop measures and revise key legislation."