Government urged to act on climate change

The government has been urged by insurers to take swift and decisive action to prepare the country for the effects of climate change.

Speaking at the Environment Agency's annual conference, Stephen Haddrill, director-general of the Association of British Insurers (ABI) emphasised that the costs and effects of erratic weather are already having an impact.

Mr Haddrill said: "This summer's floods – which cost the insurance industry more than £3 billion – show how serious the problem now is.

"The Climate Change Bill must be strengthened. Climate change is already here, so we need more action today.

"The consequences of climate change already in the system will be more erratic and violent weather, increased levels of storms, greater likelihood of flash, river and coastal flooding, and more intense heatwaves. Our message is: adapt and survive."

The conference, chaired by broadcasters Jon Snow and Robin Lustig, brought together many business leaders, ministers from government departments, leaders of local councils and the mayor of London, as well as representatives from the meteorological office.

01/11/2007 12:15:35