Government must not ignore 'apocalyptic' warning - Norman Baker MP

10.38.05pm BST (GMT +0100) Sat 7th Aug 2004

Climate change is a greater threat to the planet than terrorism

Commenting on Sir David King's warning that London, New York and New Orleans are seriously threatened by melting ice caps, Norman Baker MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Environment Secretary, said:

"This is an apocalyptic warning from Sir David King that cannot be ignored.

I am pleased that the Government is continuing to try to persuade the Russian government to sign up to Kyoto. But it is now well overdue for the Prime Minister to lean on his best buddy, George Bush to get some proper action from the Americans.

This is a global problem of historical proportions which requires all countries to work together before time runs out. That will not happen unless the US plays a leading and constructive role.

Domestically, Tony Blair should give more of a personal lead. In the last year he has made only one speech, of less than 10 minutes, on the subject of climate change and is at his least convincing when answering questions on the matter.

Sir David King says that climate change is a greater threat to the planet than terrorism. We've heard a great deal from the Prime Minister on terrorism, understandably, but precious little about climate change."