Serious questions over future of Climate Minister

For immediate release 27 May 2010

The Green MSPs have tonight questioned the judgement of Stewart Stevenson, the Climate Change Minister, following two rejections of Mr Stevenson's proposed climate targets, firstly nine days ago in the Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change Committee, and secondly tonight in the Chamber by 64 votes to 62.

Patrick Harvie MSP said:

"Stewart Stevenson and his SNP colleagues have repeatedly tried to gut the Climate Change Act, and I am today proud of Parliament for holding firm. The Minister has offered no consultation, no compromise, and no comprehension of the science.

"Quite simply, the implementation of the Climate Change Act is his most important responsibility, and he has today demonstrated himself to be out of touch with Parliament, with science, and even with the SNP's own manifesto. This Minister has been either unable or unwilling to present a climate change agenda which can gain the support of Parliament, and there must now be serious questions about his future."