PORTLANDERS have called on the Govern-ment to toughen its stance on climate change.

Representatives of the island's Churches Together invited South Dorset MP Jim Knight to a meeting at Easton Methodist Church to press their case.

The Rev Chris Briggs told Mr Knight: "The idea is to lobby you as our MP to do your bit to ensure the Climate Bill going through Parliament is as effective as possible." He added: "We want to support Christian Aid's aim for an 80 per cent carbon-free environment."

John Culley told Mr Knight: "Many species have ceased to exist here in the last 35 years and parts of the Climate Bill need beefing up to prevent further loss."

Mr Knight replied that it is a profound problem, adding that biodiversity loss and climate change are linked as can be seen in the loss of many species of migrating birds. He said: "Overall, we must be confident that change in carbon levels will come about but we must lead the way, and I will be supporting the amendment to the Climate Change Bill to have the target raised for a carbon-free environment."

He considers that the emissions in the marine and aviation industries are more of a problem, which higher fuel costs in the UK would not solve as ships and aircraft would then refuel in countries where it is cheaper.

Mr Knight said the Government is looking to using less energy, renewable energy and developing nuclear power by replacing old power stations.