This decision has been taken by representatives of the COP Bureau of the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change), with the UK and its Italian partners.

Dates for a rescheduled conference in 2021, hosted in Glasgow by the UK in partnership with Italy, will be set out in due course following further discussion with parties.

In light of the ongoing, worldwide effects of COVID-19, holding an ambitious, inclusive COP26 in November 2020 is no longer possible.

Rescheduling will ensure all parties can focus on the issues to be discussed at this vital conference and allow more time for the necessary preparations to take place.

COP26 President-Designate and Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Alok Sharma said: “The world is currently facing an unprecedented global challenge and countries are rightly focusing their efforts on saving lives and fighting COVID-19. That is why we have decided to reschedule COP26.

“We will continue working tirelessly with our partners to deliver the ambition needed to tackle the climate crisis and I look forward to agreeing a new date for the conference.”

Councillor Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “It is absolutely the right decision to postpone COP26 as the world is in the midst of fighting the COVID19 pandemic.

“We will continue to work with partners to be ready to host a successful climate change conference and look forward to welcoming delegates to Glasgow next year.

“Whenever COP26 takes place, as host city Glasgow stands ready, to not only deliver a superb event but also to secure a lasting legacy and low carbon future for our city and the planet.”

Climate change secretary Roseanna Cunningham said: “We welcome the common sense decision to postpone COP26.

“Given the global health and economic implications of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is clear that hosting an international conference in November would be difficult if not impossible. The decision also means that much needed resources can be focussed on the immediate task of saving lives and protecting the economy.

“The Scottish Government remains committed to supporting Glasgow as host of COP26. When the time is right, we look forward to welcoming delegates to a successful COP26 in Glasgow, that sets the world on course to net-zero in a way that is fair and just.”

• Read all of our articles relating to COVID-19 here.