Failure on energy efficiency a national scandal - Stunell

5.07.48pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 17th Oct 2006

Liberal Democrat Shadow Local Government Secretary, Andrew Stunell MP

A European ruling condemning the Government for failing to bring in energy efficiency measures on time has been highlighted by the Liberal Democrats as an example of the Government's failure to tackle climate change.

Heating buildings accounts for half of all Britain's carbon emissions, yet the Government is refusing to introduce tough energy efficiency requirements that would also save consumers money from reduced fuel bills.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Shadow Local Government Secretary, Andrew Stunell MP said "The Government's failure to improve the energy efficiency of buildings, responsible for half of all Britain's carbon emissions is a national scandal.

"Labour could have taken decisive action two years ago when the Sustainable Buildings Act became law. Instead they have prevaricated and delayed, and now face censure across Europe.

"Several million tons of carbon emissions have been needlessly pumped into the atmosphere because of their idleness.

"The Government is very keen to talk tough on tackling climate change but has spectacularly failed to act, presiding over an increase in carbon emissions since 1997."