PORTLAND Town Council has voted to support the Government's National Climate and Ecological Emergency Bill.

At their council meeting on January 20, Portland Town Councillors unanimously voted to support the Climate and Ecological Emergency Bill currently awaiting a second reading in Parliament.

The Bill, if passed, would require the Government to develop emergency strategies to reduce UK greenhouse gas emissions, protect the environment, and support wildlife habitats and soil fertility.

Having first declared a ‘Climate and Ecological Emergency’ in June 2019, Portland councillors also support Dorset Council’s own declaration, and have contributed comments and observations to Dorset Council's recent strategy consultation.

Portland town councillors Giovanna Lewis and Pete Roper spoke in support of the proposal.

Cllr Lewis said: "This new legislation is important for local people, the nation, and the planet."

Cllr Roper said: "We may be only one small council, but our voice is one among many and it will count."