NEW LAWS TO TACKLE CLIMATE CHANGE
A Bill to tackle climate change, backed by Helen, completed its passage through the House of Commons today.
Helen has been a strong supporter of the Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Bill – a private members bill that introduces a package of measures to counter the environmental threat of global warming.
Helen said “Climate change is the biggest issue facing the planet so I am very pleased that this Bill has been passed by the House of Commons.
“We are already seeing examples of the negative consequences of climate change locally, such as threats to some of County Durham’s native plant species.”
“Many local people have been in touch with me to say that they support the Bill and believe tough action should be taken to reduce carbon emissions. I agree, and I will continue to press the case for radical action to stop global warming.”
Helen Goodman served on the committee that considered the Climate Change Bill, and spoke in its favour today as MPs gave it their support. You can read Helen’s speech here.
She added, “Climate change is an issue of justice between the rich and poor countries of the world, and between present and future generations. We do not have the right to ruin the environment just because we happened to be born first.
“The Government’s Chief Scientist has said that we have a window of opportunity to tackle climate change. But we urgently need a change of culture.
“We must act quickly before change becomes irreversible and we see catastrophic events like the reversal of the Gulf Stream that keeps Britain warm. The flooding of low lying countries like Bangladesh due to rising sea levels would be disastrous and turn millions of people into refugees.
“Action taken now is easier and more economical than action taken later.”
Filed under: Uncategorized on May 12th, 2006
