IF there were ever any doubts about the reality of global warming then the increasing severe weather of recent years should be proof enough. The devastation caused to thousands of people's lives and homes, as well as the economy, by the current floods, is apparent to everyone.

High and ever-increasing levels of greenhouse gases are responsible for this, carbon dioxide emissions being the main culprit. At Kyoto, Japan, in 1997 international agreement was reached to cut these dangerously high levels. Britain took the lead by its commitment to cut carbon dioxide emissions by 20 per cent before 2010 from 1990 levels.

We can all play our part in this by using our cars less and by using public transport more.

Most occupants of road vehicles are single drivers and it is simple arithmetic that if drivers could pair up then road traffic would be halved! Obviously, this is a difficult choice for drivers who enjoy the comfort and convenience of driving their own vehicle. To this end, the Government has maintained a relatively high level of fuel duty, thus posting a signal for manufacturers to design more fuel-efficient cars and for motorists to avoid unnecessary journeys and to consider alternatives to the car.

Government figures show that the overall cost of motoring was the same in real terms in 1999 as it was in 1974, while the cost of rail fares rose by 53 per cent and bus fares by 87 per cent. To cut fuel taxes more would lead to even greater car dependency and disastrous consequences for the environment.

Another detrimental effect of lowering fuel prices is that the Bank of England would be compelled to increase base rate in order to curb inflationary pressures. Of necessity, mortgage interest rates would rise and the increase in mortgage bills would far outweigh any benefit from concessions on fuel duty.

Sooner or later, we will have to face the fact that we all have an individual responsibility, in order to avoid bequeathing a legacy of environmental disaster to our children.

It is hoped , however, that the Government will take into account the needs of vulnerable groups such as the disabled and those in outlying rural communities, as well as those of the essential services.

DEREK SANDFORD,

(Friends of the Earth),

Bury Street, Radcliffe.