Lib Dems: Tories failing on air pollution

New figures released today by the Department for the Environment show that emissions of air pollutants have not dropped significantly over the past three years, despite the Government promising to tackle air pollution as a priority.

Responding to the figures, Alistair Carmichael, Liberal Democrat Environment Spokesperson, said:

These figures show that this Tory Government is failing to tackle air pollution, which they described themselves as ‘the biggest environmental threat to public health.’

Long-term exposure to these emissions can cause heart and lung problems as well as potentially contribute to cancers, with the young and the old being particularly vulnerable. People deserve better and Liberal Democrats demand better.

Liberal Democrats would pass a new Clean Air Act, giving people the legal right to unpolluted air wherever they live. New Clean Air Zones must also be brought forward in the most polluted towns and cities, and we would also restore subsidies to electric vehicles foolishly cut by the Tories.

Farron slams ‘Tory death tax’

Former Leader of the Liberal Democrats Tim Farron has taken a swipe at the Conservative Government ahead of the introduction of what he has dubbed a “Tory death tax”.

From 16th February, new regulations introduced by the Conservative Government mean the cost of death certificates, as well as birth and marriage certificates, is going up from £4 to £11.

Citizens Advice recommends people get “several copies of the [death] certificate, for which there will be a charge.” Upon losing a loved one, people now face a charge hike of £49, on the basis seven copies are purchased.

Mr Farron accused the Conservatives of introducing these measures “by the back door” as MPs have been denied a vote on them.

The former Leader of the Liberal Democrats added:

These regressive fees, charged to people just when they are grieving for loved ones, are nothing more than an insensitive death tax.

People deserve better, and the Liberal Democrats demand better. Profiteering off the back of people losing loved ones should bring shame on those who call themselves ‘compassionate conservatives.

Rise in eating disorder hospital admissions shows desperate need for early intervention

Responding to the figures showing there has been a dramatic rise in hospital admissions for eating disorders in the last year, Liberal Democrat MP Wera Hobhouse said:

Eating disorders are life threatening illnesses, but the real tragedy is that this is preventable. By focusing on early intervention, the numbers of those suffering with eating disorders could be greatly reduced.

The Liberal Democrats demand better for those suffering with eating disorders. The Government must extend access to Children and Young People’s Mental Health Services up to the age of 25 as well as introducing waiting time targets for adults as well as children.

Equally, on average, medical students receive less than two hours of teaching on eating disorders throughout their undergraduate training. By improving training we will be able to greatly improve early intervention and give those suffering the help they so desperately need.