White, who grew up in Adel, has spent more than two decades campaigning to tackle climate change. Before entering politics, she co-led the campaign at Friends of the Earth that delivered the UK’s pioneering Climate Change Act in 2008, the first law in the world to set a legally binding, long-term framework for cutting carbon emissions.

The following year, in 2009, she worked with the UK Government to prepare for the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen (COP15), a pivotal moment in global climate diplomacy. She later served in the newly created Department of Energy and Climate Change, helping to shape domestic and international climate policy.

White has also gone on to lead global advocacy work with Friends of the Earth and WWF, earning an OBE in 2013 for her services to climate action.

Earlier this year, she welcomed Sir David Attenborough to Parliament to host a private screening of his latest Ocean documentary, highlighting her work in championing nature and the environment.

Since being elected last year, White’s work in the constituency has included spearheading the Take Back Fultons campaign to breathe life back into an empty high street site in Otley, fighting to bring the X84 bus route back to the constituency, and helping to secure the new billion-pound National Wealth Fund headquarters for Leeds, a move she says is expected to create thousands of jobs across the region.

Katie White MP said: “I am over the moon to have been asked by the Prime Minister to serve as Climate Minister. It is a huge responsibility, but also a real privilege. Tackling the climate crisis is not just about policy papers and targets, it is about protecting the places we love, supporting people today, and making sure future generations can thrive.

“The challenges we face are serious, but there is also real hope. We have world-class scientists, businesses that want to innovate, and people across the country who are already making changes in their daily lives. That gives us something to build on.

“Here in Yorkshire, people care deeply about the countryside, the rivers, and the towns we call home. From Otley Chevin to the Dales, there is a real pride in protecting what we have and passing it on in better shape. I want those values to guide me in this role and to make sure our region’s voice is heard at the heart of government.

White became the first woman elected to represent Leeds North West in 2024, winning with a majority of nearly 12,000.