World Development Movement commend local MP John McDonnell’s position on climate

John McDonnell MP has been commended by the World Development Movement for supporting attempts to strengthen the climate change bill.

John McDonnell has joined over 200 MPs who have signed the Early Day Motion 736 - a parliamentary petition - calling for the climate change bill to include carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from international aviation and for a tougher target for cutting CO2 by more than 80 per cent by 2050.

There is growing pressure to strengthen the bill’s proposals in line with the latest science. Warnings are coming from campaigners, scientists, the UN and MPs that the bill must be tougher in order to successfully tackle climate change. Top of the list of improvements needed are toughening the overall target from a 60 per cent to an 80 per cent cut in carbon emissions by 2050; and making sure that international flights are included in the bill.

Benedict Southworth, Director of the World Development Movement said:

“We are delighted that John McDonnell is supporting calls for a tougher climate change bill. If this law is really going to have any chance of helping to prevent dangerous climate change we have to reduce our carbon emissions in the UK by more than 80 per cent and include international flights in the target. The government must take leadership on tackling climate change and help to prevent the loss of livelihoods and lives of millions in the developing world.”

Local MP John McDonnell said:

“My constituents have told me they’re worried about climate change and the climate change bill is a bold and innovative move to address those worries. However, we must ensure the bill reflects the latest science and listens to the advice of the UN to include carbon emissions from all sectors. We must reduce our emissions by at least 80 per cent by 2050 and include international aviation and shipping to show strong international leadership, giving the people of Hayes and Harlington and people across the world the chance of a sustainable future.”

submitted by John on 16 Apr 2008 at 15:55