HC Deb 11 March 2004 vol 418 cc1657-8W
Mr. Tam Dalyell

To ask the Prime Minister if he will make a statement on the implications of the findings of the Chief Scientist on climate change published in the journalScience in January. [160418]

The Prime Minister

The article inScience was based on analysis which the Chief Scientific Adviser first set out in his Zuckerman Lecture in October 2002. His conclusion was that the evidence for man-made climate change was convincing and that this cannot be ignored. The Government share that view

This analysis underpinned the rationale behind the Energy White Paper, (CM5761) which sets out a programme to put the UK on a path to reduce the UK's carbon dioxide emissions by some, 60 per cent. by 2050. It also underpins the UK's support for the United Nations Framework Convention on climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol which are a vital first step to avoiding dangerous climate change. The UK has also been at the forefront of efforts to secure global action on climate change.

Norman Baker

To ask the Prime Minister with reference to the memorandum from Mr. Ivan Rogers to Sir David King, relating to public pronouncements on climate change, which wider policy aims would be adversely affected were Sir David King to grant interview requests from the media.[160599]

The Prime Minister

David King is on the record many times outlining the importance of climate change to the media, including on his recent visit to the United States where he took part in a press conference and chaired a workshop that the media attended.

Norman Baker

To ask the Prime Minister what(a) representations were received from and (b) discussions took place with the US authorities on Sir David King's public statements on climate change between their publication and the issuing of the memorandum to Sir David King by Mr. Ivan Rogers, on media requests for an interview. [160600]

The Prime Minister

The Government regularly have discussions with the US Government, at many levels, on a wide range of international issues including on climate change. As with previous Administrations, it is not the practice of this Government to make public details of discussions with foreign Governments.