Churches demand tough action on climate change

Five Churches have united in a call to the Government to make low carbon power a priority.

The Baptist Union of Great Britain, Church of Scotland, Methodist Church, Quakers and United Reformed Church want to see Britain become a low-carbon economy.

They say the Government's Energy Bill must commit the UK to having a near carbon free power sector by 2030, in line with recommendations from the Committee on Climate Change.

"We represent different parts of society but are united in the belief that a low-carbon power sector is essential to secure the future wellbeing of our economy, our environment and future generations," the Churches said in letter published in the Financial Times.

Steve Hucklesby, Public Issues Policy Adviser for the Methodist Church said the country could no longer burn gas and coal "as if climate change doesn't exist".

"By acting decisively now, the Government can set a clear course for generating cleaner energy and ensure a more sustainable future for us all," he said.