The phase out date was previously moved from 2040 to 2035 earlier this year on the Committee’s recommendation. It has now revised its proposal as part of a package of advice to deliver a green recovery from Covid-19.

Further measures urged include provision of dedicated safe spaces for walking and cycling, more bicycle parking and support for shared bikes and e-scooters to help the nation get back to work in a more sustainable way.

It adds that there is “a window for Government to reinforce the ‘climate-positive’ behaviours that have emerged during the lockdown, including increased remote working, cycling and walking”.

The Department for Transport’s expansion plans for the electric vehicle charging network are in line with the requirements identified in the Committee’s analysis, it adds. “Now they must be delivered.”

The Committee’s chairman Lord Deben said: “The UK is facing its biggest economic shock for a generation. Meanwhile, the global crisis of climate change is accelerating. We have a once in a lifetime opportunity to address these urgent challenges together; it’s there for the taking.

“The steps that the UK takes to rebuild from the Covid-19 pandemic can accelerate the transition to a successful and low-carbon economy and improve our climate resilience. Choices that lock in emissions or climate risks are unacceptable.”

Chair of the group’s adaptation committee Baroness Brown of Cambridge added: “We have warned repeatedly that the UK is poorly prepared for the very serious impacts of climate change. Now is the moment to get our house in order, coordinate national planning, and prepare for the inevitable changes ahead.”

Think tank the Green Alliance has also issued a report this week calling for the Government to urgently revise planned UK infrastructure projects in order to help achieve a green recovery.

“Even with the current 2035 phase out date for petrol and diesel cars, we can’t shift to electric vehicles fast enough to meet our carbon budgets: we can’t afford further road expansion,” it says.

The group calls for planned investment in new roads to be redirected to “rebuilding a stronger greener economy”, including through spending on low carbon transport and upgrading internet broadband coverage.