Archived press release
Go to our press releases area for our current press releases.
Government must act on aviation
21 September 2005
Friends of the Earth has attacked Environment Minister Elliott Morley for claiming that there is no evidence that a tax on aviation would work. Mr Morley's comments followed publication of a report today from the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change research, which says that all householders, motorists and businesses will have to reduce their carbon dioxide pollution to zero, if the growing aviation industry is to be incorporated into Government climate change targets.
Friends of the Earth has welcomed the report and is calling for an immediate review of aviation policy.
Friends of the Earth's Executive Director Tony Juniper said:
"Elliot Morley is mistaken in believing that there is no evidence to back a tax on aviation fuel. The Department of Transport's own computer forecasting models on aviation growth show dramatic reductions in the growth of air travel when fuel tax and VAT are charged.
"Only this week the Swedish Government announced a tax on aviation to reduce its environmental impact. Aviation is a rogue sector and its environmental impact is out of control. Climate change is the most urgent challenge facing humanity and yet the government's aviation policy is doing the opposite of what is required."
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
Last modified: Jun 2008
