The announcement of a climate change bill in the Queen’s Speech, following widespread support for Friends of the Earth’s The Big Ask campaign, was welcomed by Doug Naysmith, MP for Bristol North West.
Doug Naysmith has joined 412 MPs – almost two thirds of MPs overall, and a majority in every party sitting in Parliament – in signing a Parliamentary petition (Early Day Motion 178) calling for new legislation.  The Government has responded by promising a Climate Change Bill in its programme of legislation for 2007.
The singer Thom Yorke from the band Radiohead launched The Big Ask campaign in May 2005.  Since then over 100,000 people from across the country have put The Big Ask to their MP by postcard e-mail or letter.

Doug Naysmith said: “Climate change is probably the biggest issues facing us today, and it is important that we address this in a way that achieves real results.  Early action will be much more cost effective than drastic, late action; if the UK demonstrates its commitment to climate change by actions not words, we can change the terms of debate and persuade other countries to follow suit; and by developing a low-carbon economy we will provide opportunities for creating jobs and wealth through expanding the UK’s environmental industries.”
Friends of the Earth Director, Tony Juniper said: “We are delighted that a Climate Change Bill was announced in the Queen’s Speech – this is something Friends of the Earth has been campaigning for through The Big Ask climate campaign.  The Bill is a crucial first step in ensuring the UK plays its part in keeping temperatures below danger levels.”