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More than 100,000 people have signed a petition by Greenpeace UK calling for leaders of all political parties to take part in a national televised debate on the climate and nature emergencies in the run-up to next month’s general election.
The campaign for a televised climate debate is being led by climate charity Possible, with the support of a wide range of charities and NGOs. It has already received the backing of Labour, the Scottish National Party, the Liberal Democrats and the Green party.
‘Politically, we are in unprecedented times. But Brexit or no Brexit, the environmental crises that we currently face are the most pressing issues of our time. Voters are aware of this and it’s clearly going to influence how they cast their ballot. This is why all party leaders must showcase their policies for tackling the climate and nature emergencies to the public, and allow them to be scrutinised, by taking part in a climate and environment TV debate.’
REBECCA NEWSOM
Head of politics at Greenpeace UK
The strong public support demonstrated by the number of signatories to the petition will heap pressure on the Conservative party, which has not yet responded to requests for a debate on the issue.
According to the results of a public poll conducted last month, a majority of Brits say that climate change will affect how they will vote in the upcoming election; almost two-thirds agreed the climate emergency is the biggest issue facing humankind.
‘The next government will shape how the UK responds to these challenges, how quickly and effectively we move away from fossil fuels, electrify our transport systems and insulate our buildings. We need a government that is committed to protecting and restore our oceans and forests, transforming how we produce our food and boost new clean jobs, with support for workers and communities to benefit from the transition ahead. This election could be make or break for the environment and climate.’
REBECCA NEWSOM
Head of politics at Greenpeace UK
With communities across the north of England devastated by recent flooding, Greenpeace says it is ‘imperative that all parties’ environmental policies and plans for tackling the climate and nature emergencies are put under the spotlight’.
Click here to read our article about putting the the environment at the heart of election manifestos.
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