Emission target 'should be increased'

The current target to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in the UK by 60 per cent by 2050 does not go far enough, it has been argued.

Writing for the Guardian, Steve Webb argues this figure should be increased to 80 per cent in order to preserve air quality and do more to stave off climate change.

The current target of 60 per cent is included in the climate change bill currently going through parliament.

"If we fail to get the bill toughened up, we send Hilary Benn to the next round of climate change negotiations in Poland later this year with a very weak hand to play," said Mr Webb,

He added that the UK cannot demand other nations sign up to tough cuts on carbon emissions if the UK government has "wimped out" of taking the necessary steps to deal with climate change.

The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs notes the climate change bill was introduced in November 2007 and passed through the House of Lords in March 2008.

It said the goal is for the bill to become law by this autumn.