WALES: Labour lack of green policies not sustainable

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 14th Jun 2004

Mick Bates, Welsh Liberal Democrat environment spokesperson, today accused the Labour Assembly Government of a lack of leadership in achieving the Assembly's vision of sustainability.

He said that the Assembly commitment to sustainable development, as enshrined in section 121 of the Government of Wales, was one of the Assembly's key initiatives but was in danger of being undermined by Labour's lack of vision.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats are using their opposition party debate on Wednesday to urge the Assembly Government to integrate green energy and energy efficiency strategies, provide leadership in projects that reduce carbon emissions, amend planning guidance to promote community renewable energy projects and for the Assembly Government to meet it's 4 TWh renewable target.

Mick Bates said; "Labour's unwillingness to provide a lead on the environment represents a major challenge to the Assembly's commitment. It should not be up to the Welsh Liberal Democrats to remind Labour of its duties towards sustainability in Wales.

"We are offering solid suggestions for action. Labour should accept these proposals as a means to kick-start the sustainability and renewables agenda in Wales. Their lack of vision is a threat to Wales' place as a global leader on sustainable policies and issues."