EU fears Bush will block environmental moves

The EU Environment Commissioner has said she doubts President Bush will be a more environment-conscious negotiator in global climate talks than Bill Clinton.

Margot Wallstroem said she was "a little worried" about the views of Mr Bush, but urged people to judge him by his actions.

A transatlantic clash over carbon dioxide emission-reduction targets led to the collapse last month of global climate talks in the Netherlands.

Ms Wallstroem has made the comments as she unveiled the European Commission's views and strategies on securing greater environmental protection over the next 10 years.

She said the European Commission would focus on better implementation of environmental laws by the 15 EU governments.

It will also concentrate upon greater integration of environmental norms in industrial and other policies and more information for European citizens and companies and about the merits of a cleaner environment.

Ms Wallstroem said that in drafting EU bill, the Commission would pay more attention to environmental aspects and impacts. "Growth and environment are not incompatible," she said.

She also said she would soon propose "a completely new" approach of authorising the marketing and handling of chemical products.

There would be no intent to impose bans, she added, but "to look at how to address the most hazardous products".