Keighley MP Ann Cryer has supported an environmental group's calls for more to be done to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

Mrs Cryer believes that steps have to be taken to control global warming for future generations - but that may mean further petrol price rises.

Friends of the Earth has claimed that the Government will fall short of the target 20 per cent reduction planned in its recent draft climate change programme.

The group says that, as it stands, the programme may only deliver a 15 per cent reduction and has asked Mrs Cryer to urge Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott to tighten up.

They argue that recent weather conditions such as the heavy rainfalls of recent months, and particularly the Yorkshire flooding, may be connected to greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Friends of the Earth's Roger Higman said: "Further measures to promote renewable energy and to cut traffic levels are needed if the Government's target is to be reached."

Mrs Cryer agrees that traffic on our roads has to be reduced through providing better alternatives.

She said: "Before you can persuade people to stop using cars you've got to improve public transport - this is gradually happening."

But to raise money for improvements, and to persuade people to stop using their cars, petrol prices will keep increasing. That will provoke more anger from motorists, already resentful of large rises of recent years."

Mrs Cryer said: "Trying to compete on price with other nations does not make sense, as countries with cheaper fuel may be some of the worst environmental offenders."

"This may be hard on people like nurses and bakers who have to get to work before public transport operates. Perhaps a system of reductions could be considered for people who can prove they have to drive."

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