Donald Trump was 'wrong' to leave climate change deal: UK minister

"I think he is wrong. I think that we need international cooperation in order to deal with climate change," said Michael Gove, who was appointed by Prime Minister Theresa May over the weekend.

Gove, who has himself come under criticism for voting against measures to prevent climate change, said the Paris Accord was "a significant step forward".

Trump announced his decision earlier this month, prompting concern in many of the remaining 194 signatories of the historic agreement.

May told Trump at the time that the climate accord was a safety net for future generations.

"The Paris Agreement provides the right global framework for protecting the prosperity and security of future generations, while keeping energy affordable and secure for our citizens and businesses," May told Trump by phone.

The US is the world's second biggest polluter after China.