Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Lord Judd (Labour). It was answered on Tuesday, 18 October 2005.

Climate Change

Question: My Lords, will my noble friend agree that however real and dangerous the threat of global terrorism, as matters stand, the consequences of climate change are likely to bring about far more death, suffering, displacement of people and economic damage than terrorism ever will? Will my noble friend agree that a priority for us all must be to persuade our friends and allies that they must give to the stand against the consequences of global warming the same determination and priority as they give to the fight against terrorism?

Answer: My Lords, I agree that this is perhaps the most important issue that faces our world. The issue is to make sure that the general public around the world understand that too. We believe that, during our presidency, we have succeeded in focusing US attention on energy and climate issues. There are, indeed, signs that opinions in the US have moved and are moving, but as yet there have not been corresponding changes in policy. However, we look with interest at what has come from American business and from American state-level and city-level mayors who have shown a real interest in targeting climate change.

Secondary information