Climate change is real and significant threat - Baker

The future of the Kyoto agreement on climate change still hangs in the balance on the final day of the UN climate change conference in Italy.

Norman Baker MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Environment Secretary, has called on the Government to step-up its commitment to the global environment.

He said:

"There should now be no doubt that climate change is a real and significant threat to everyone, particularly the poorest and most vulnerable communities.

"Climate change is already killing thousands and damaging the agricultural economy. It's time the world addressed the problem with the same determination it has in tackling terrorism.

"Tony Blair must step up domestic measures to ensure Britain hits its emissions targets and apply real pressure to Presidents Putin and Bush to come on board.

"Kyoto may not be perfect, but it is an essential first step."