Miliband: UK is leading the way on climate change

Tuesday, 13, Mar 2007 12:00

The environment secretary David Miliband has said the new climate change bill shows the UK is leading the way in tackling climate change.

The bill would require the government to reduce emissions by 60 per cent by 2050 and there would be "carbon budgets" every five years to set out expected emissions.

An independent body would monitor progress and provide expert advice on cutting emissions.

Mr Miliband said: "This bill is a critical part of the equation. It will help us achieve the twin goals I set out in the strategy I am also publishing today - demonstrating leadership through action at home, while also continuing to work towards a strong international agreement post-2012.

"Crucially the climate change bill, the first of its kind in any country, demonstrates our determination that this leadership role will continue."

Mr Miliband warned: "With climate change we can't just close our eyes and cross our fingers. We need to step up our action to tackle it, building on our considerable progress so far. And time isn't on our side."