The Bill, Please!14 May 2010
On 3 June 20 MPs' names will be drawn out of a hat in a process known as a Private Members' Ballot.
It might sound like one of those strange old Westminster traditions - but it's basically just a chance for 20 MPs to propose a law on whatever they choose.
Most importantly this is a great opportunity to persuade MPs to finally put the environment on the table.
Strong track-record
Friends of the Earth has had great success working with MPs to get these proposed laws - known as Private Members' Bills - turned into real Acts of law.
Previous wins include:
- Road Traffic Reduction Act (1997)
- Warm Homes and Energy Conservation Act (2000)
- Household Waste Recylcing Act (2003)
And from 3 June we'll be at it again focussing on two crucial campaigns.
Fixing the food chain
The Food Chain campaign is calling for a new law to overhaul the UK's livestock system.
Factory farming currently relies on huge imports of soy from South America for animal feed.
This industrial-scale production of soy is causing:
- Deforestation
- Climate-changing emissions
- Displacement of local communities
A new law - based on a Bill recently presented to Parliament - would reduce the UK's reliance on imported feeds and promote home-grown alternatives.
It would also create a fairer deal for farmers and consumers.
Sign up here to receive news of the 3 June ballot and other food issues.
Get Serious About CO2
The Get Serious About CO2 campaign is also pushing for legislation in the new Parliament.
We're calling for the introduction of local carbon budgets, which would ensure every council does its bit to tackle climate change locally.
With both coalition partners backing local carbon budgets, we want to see the new Government commit to introduce this legislation in the Queen's Speech on 25 May.
If they don't, we'll push for a backbench MP to introduce the legislation through the Private Members' Ballot.
Together we can ensure a sustainable low carbon future for all of our local communities that is good for the environment and good for people.
Sign up here to receive news of the 3 June ballot and other climate change issues.
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