THE news on Tuesday, March 13, of the detailed proposals for the climate change bill has caused mixed feelings for myself, and, I am sure, many others who care about our future.

Real action to tackle climate change can only happen if the Government is wholeheartedly committed to it. So the Government's acceptance of the need for an independent committee to set our budget for greenhouse gas emissions is very welcome, as is their decision to report yearly to Parliament on their progress.

But it is disappointing that they want to set the target for the reduction of carbon emissions over a five year period instead of annually.

Bolton Friends of the Earth will continue to urge the adoption of annual targets which would focus the minds of ministers on the need for vigorous action. But we warmly welcome the Government's acceptance of many of the ideas that Friends of the Earth have been campaigning for.

Elizabeth Shepherd Bolton Friends of the Earth Anfield Road Bolton