PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Commenting on the debate in Parliament today (Tuesday 15 November 2011) on a motion urging the Government to stem fuel price rises, Birmingham Friends of the Earth’s Campaigns Coordinator Roxanne Green said:
“Successive governments have failed to wean the UK transport system off its oil addiction – and with petrol prices soaring, motorists are now paying the price.
“When it comes to producing fuel-efficient vehicles, the motor industry has generally pootled along in the slow lane – and Governments have been reluctant to make them go faster.
“Cutting fuel tax is only a sticking plaster solution – urgent action is needed to create a clean, modern and affordable transport system.
“UK transport policy needs a new direction which focuses on better public transport, safer walking and cycling and smarter cars that use less fuel.
“Birmingham city council should take a lead and implement a truly ambitious Low Carbon Transport Strategy to help the city become healthier, wealthier and happier.”
ENDS
Notes to Editors
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Birmingham Friends of the Earth campaigns on many environmental issues on a local, national and international level. https://birminghamfoe.org.uk/
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A briefing on Fuel Tax, Transport and Climate Change is available from Friends of the Earth’s website: http://www.foe.co.uk/resource/briefings/fueltaxnovember2011.pdf
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Consultation on Birmingham’s Low Carbon Transport Strategy 2011+ is open until Friday and can be viewed here: http://tinyurl.com/dxqtk62
For more information contact: Joe Peacock (Birmingham Friends of the Earth)
0121 632 6909 joe@birminghamfoe.org.uk
