Archived press release

Government 'likely' to introduce new climate law - report

13 October 2006

Friends of the Earth has welcomed reports that a "climate change bill is likely to be included in next month's Queen's Speech" [1]. Friends of the Earth has led the campaign for a new climate change law through The Big Ask climate campaign.

Friends of the Earth director, Tony Juniper said:

"We are delighted that the Government is considering new legislation to cut UK carbon dioxide emissions. Friends of the Earth has been campaigning for a climate change law for a number of years. Most MPs and all the main opposition parties are now calling on the Government to introduce legislation requiring annual reductions in UK emissions this autumn. Tony Blair must build on the political consensus that now exists for tackling this crisis, and ensure that the UK's contribution to climate change falls every year."

Notes

1. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/6045680.stm

2. 398 MPs have now given their backing to The Big Ask, Friends of the Earth's climate campaign, which is calling for the introduction of a law that would commit the Government to cutting the UK's carbon dioxide emissions by at least three per cent year on year.

3. Friends of the Earth believes a climate change law would ensure the UK plays its part in keeping global temperatures below danger levels, and that it does this in a manageable way. The cuts in carbon dioxide emissions which are needed can be achieved through a range of measures such as encouraging energy efficiency and promoting renewable energy supplies.

4. Friends of the Earth is also a member of the Stop Climate Chaos coalition which launches the `I Count' campaign this week. `I Count' is designed to inspire personal and political action and counter the view that climate change is too big a problem to fix. More information at: www.icount.org.uk Members of the public are encouraged to sign up to the campaign at www.icount.org.uk or by texting `I Count' to 84424. They are also urged to attend a mass event at London's Trafalgar Square, on Saturday 4th November, 2006, 1-3pm - on the eve of international climate change talks in Nairobi, Kenya

If you're a journalist looking for press information please contact the Friends of the Earth media team on 020 7566 1649.

Published by Friends of the Earth Trust