Commenting on the European Commission's objections to UK plans to delay action on tackling poor air quality, Friends of the Earth Campaigner Jenny Bates said:

"The UK's poor air quality is a national disgrace that causes tens of thousands of premature deaths every year.

"The Government must come clean about the steps it will take to rapidly cut air pollution - or face having to cough up millions of pounds in fines."

ENDS

1.       European commission decision on UK plans on air pollution:http://ec.europa.eu/environment/air/quality/legislation/pdf/uk2_no2_en.pdf

2.       Friends of the Earth blog on air pollution:http://www.foe.co.uk/blog/air_pollution_31981.html

3.       For more than 40 years we’ve seen that the wellbeing of people and planet go hand in hand – and it’s been the inspiration for our campaigns. Together with thousands of people like you we’ve secured safer food and water, defended wildlife and natural habitats, championed the move to clean energy and acted to keep our climate stable. Be a Friend of the Earth – see things differently. For further information visit www.foe.co.uk