Government announcement on Climate Change Law FoE Scotland comment

18 February 2008
Topics: Climate

Friends of the Earth campaigners today celebrated a victory following the announcement that Hilary Benn MP [1] has acceded to one of their key demands forthe UK climate change law. Mr Benn has announced annual target ranges and a review of the 2050 emissions reduction target.

Commenting on the announcement, Stuart Hay, Head of Campaigns at Friends of the Earth Scotland, said:

“We are delighted that the Government has accepted our message that without annual targets, this Bill will not be effective. It now also seems clear that the Government will accept the current science, and agree a emissions reduction target of at least 80% by 2050. It is now essential that the Government ensure the law is really effective and covers all emissions – including the UK’s share from international shipping and aviation.”

Hay continued:

“Today’s announcement will increase pressure on the Scottish Government over their draft Climate Change Law. When John Swinney announced the Scottish law less than three weeks ago, their proposals led the world. It now seems clear the UK law will be just as ambitious. In order to continue to provide leadership, the Scottish Government must write annual targets and the inclusion of aviation and shipping in their law.”

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NOTES

[1] Defra press release, Monday 18 February 2008 15:24 “Benn announces statutory review of 2050 climate target”
http://www.gnn.gov.uk/Content/Detail.asp?ReleaseID=353420&NewsAreaID=2

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