Government car use rises 20%

Date: 26 February 2007

Government ministers have come under harsh criticism for failing to practice what they preach following official figures that showed Governmental car use rose by more than a fifth in 2006.

Last year ministers travelled more than three million miles emitting more than 100 tonnes of carbon dioxide, despite the Government preaching the firmest of messages that businesses must reduce car use in a bid to cut climate change.

Liberal Democrat shadow secretary Alistair Carmichael called for an end to this excessive car use and highlighted the hefty additional £18m that must be footed by the taxpayer for the excess mileage.

"Government ministers need to start leading by example. Climate change is the biggest threat our planet faces. It is vital that everyone does as much as possible to cut down carbon emissions. Government ministers need to start leading by example", said Carmichael.

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