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TAKES TWO TO TANGO, PRIME MINISTER

24 Oct 2000

Friends of the Earth has responded to Mr Blair's speech on the environment today by welcoming his call for a closer partnership between Government and green organisations. But FOE Director Charles Secrett warned that “it takes two to tango”, and that New Labour must show that the environment is now finally “at the heart of Government” with radical green manifesto pledges for a second term.

• Mr Blair announced a new Lottery financed fund of fifty million pounds to support offshore wind and biomass power generation. This is a good step forward, but still not enough to meet the Government's own target of 10% of electricity to come from renewable sources by 2010.Environment groups want a more radical target of 20%
• Mr Blair claimed to be “neither pro nor anti” GM food. This is false. No 10 and the Cabinet Office have intervened repeatedly during the GM debate to support the biotech industry. FOE has caught the Government breaking the law in favour of the industry on three separate occasions.
• Mr Blair talked of the need to balance the environmental damage caused by road traffic with the needs of families and rural communities. FOE backs increased Government spending on public transport in rural areas, and tax changes to favour smaller and fuel efficient vehicles. But Mr Blair must face down the demands of petrol protestors for cuts in fuel duty, which would simply put more cars on the road. And the Government must set a target for road traffic reduction - the number of car journeys is still rising despite John Prescott's promise when Labour took office.
• Mr Blair called for a new partnership between environmentalists, Government and business.FOE already works with progressive businesses to lead the way to sustainable and best business practices. But FOE remains an independent voice, praising or criticising when appropriate. Legislation and regulation will remain crucial to oblige backward sections of industry to meet environmental standards.

Commenting, FOE Executive Director Charles Secrett said:
    “Mr Blair's talk of a new partnership is very welcome. But it takes two to tango. Mr Blair's speech contained some sharp and intelligent analysis of how environmental action can be good for the economy and for business. Now, we want to see specific and radical green policies in Labour's manifesto for a second term. We would be happy to help Mr Blair put the environment at the heart of Government. But we will remain an independent and vocal pressure group,speaking up for policies to protect people and the planet. Sometimes Governments will find that annoying. But it is what our supporters have a right to expect”