LONDON - The Green Party tried to inject environmental issues into the May 5 election on Monday, accusing Tony Blair of a "massive betrayal" of the British people.
Following is where the three parties stand on the issue.
LABOUR
- Labour says Britain is an international leader on climate change and has already met its obligations under the Kyoto Protocol.
- They are committed to reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 60 percent by 2050.
- They will increase collections for household recycling.
- They say the 2005 Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act gives local authorities the powers to tackle litter, graffiti, fly-tipping and noise pollution.
CONSERVATIVE PARTY
- The Conservatives say they will give "better leadership" on Kyoto targets. They will also:
- promote development on brownfield sites and establish more Green Belts with tighter development rules.
- produce greater incentives to make homes more energy-efficient.
- reduce the cost of cars with low carbon emissions by introducing cuts in vehicle excise duty and increased grants.
- support the development of a broad range of renewable energy sources.
LIBERAL DEMOCRATS
- The Liberal Democrats say they would ensure Britain achieves its Kyoto targets before the 2012 deadline.
- They would promote the development of renewable energy sources, aiming to meet 20 percent of electricity demand by 2020 and 50 percent by 2050.
- LibDems aim to have 60 percent of all household waste regularly recycled within seven years.
- They would also strengthen tax incentives to use smaller and less polluting vehicles, more energy efficient homes and energy efficient air flights.
REUTERS NEWS SERVICE
