Dr. Peter Doran:

I tend to agree that there are many ways to reflect the long-term trajectory. The language the Minister has used - that is, "zero carbon" and "carbon-neutral" - might well be the way to reflect the ambitious 2050 objective if it is ultimately supported by figures for each of the sectors. It does need to be much clearer. We had a discussion earlier about understanding the role of the media and communications in the climate change agenda. Legislation has a communicative function also, especially where there is a headline objective which clearly shows there is a radical break with the past. Climate change is different in so far as our choices are already laid down by physics. As I said in my paper, we cannot negotiate with physics. It is about working with the envelope, working together in a pragmatic way which does not undermine our economic capacity. A clear headline objective in some form would be very useful. As I said, there is no reason any target or objective could not simply refer to existing European and upcoming UN objectives.

That task could easily be taken on board by the expert body, for example. One of the first things the climate change committee in the United Kingdom was asked to do was to advise on the long-term target in the context of the level of ambition required. In terms of what is possible, it is well known that all of the technologies we require to facilitate this transition are available. What we must do is begin to challenge some of the institutionalised obstacles and interests. One of the chief areas now beginning to be addressed by the G8 and the United Nations is fossil fuel subsidies. As long as the incentives in the industrial and economic system are pushing in the wrong direction, we are going to come up against obstacles. All of the technologies are available, but there are still perverse incentives which are hindering the transition. While the heads of the Bill reflect the long-term nature of the transition, it will be important to highlight the ultimate objective which will have to reflect an existing EU commitment to reducing emissions by between 80% and 95%. That ambition must be communicated very clearly to the various sectors and the public if we are to bring people along on this journey.