Further cuts to carbon emissions pledge

The Government's pledge to reduce greenhouse gases by 80% by 2050 has been welcomed as "ambitious" by a leading business group.

But the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), which has been a supporter of the stricter regulations, also sounded a warning. It says that the correct policies must be in place in order to reach the target, ensuring that the upcoming Planning Bill provides the infrastructure for renewable energy and new power stations.

The new target, announced to the Commons by Energy and Climate Change Secretary Ed Miliband, supersedes the 60% reduction on 1990 levels that was enshrined in the Climate Change Bill.

It follows a recommendation by a Government-appointed committee that the UK should increase its climate change commitment.

Mr Miliband told the Commons that the tough economic conditions were no excuse to "row back" on climate change objectives.

He also said that the Government planned to encourage small-scale renewable energy by amending the Energy Bill.

John Cridland, CBI deputy director-general, said: "This is an ambitious target, and one where business will play a crucial role, providing low-carbon energy sources and improving the country's energy efficiency.

"The good news is that the steps needed to achieve this target are the same as those that would deliver security of energy supply for us all."

IMAGEGene Blythe/AP/PA Photos