Blair warns of global warming disaster threat

The consequences for the world if global warming continues unchecked will be “disastrous”, British Prime Minister Tony Blair warned today.

Mr Blair was speaking as the British government launched the report of Sir Nicholas Stern’s review of the likely impact of climate change, which warns that rising temperatures could cut economic growth by as much as one-fifth.

The report, which argues that taking action could cost 1% of global GDP, is thought likely to pave the way to large increases in green taxes.

Speaking at the report’s launch in London, Mr Blair said: “This is the most important report on the future published by this government in its time in office.”

The prospect of global warming is “frightening”, but the scientific case that it is taking place is now “overwhelming”, said the Prime Minister.

“What is not in doubt is that the scientific evidence of global warming caused by greenhouse gas emissions is now overwhelming.

“It is not in doubt that if the science is right, the consequences for our planet are literally disastrous.”

Mr Blair added: "This disaster is not set to happen in some science fiction future many years ahead, but in our lifetime.

“Unless we act now… these consequences, disastrous as they are, will be irreversible.

“There is nothing more serious, more urgent, more demanding of leadership - here, of course, but most importantly in the global community.”