UK TELLS TEXAS TO GET REAL ON CLIMATE

UK to Texas: Get serious about climate change

James Jeffrey, April 23, 2013 (Houston Business Journal)

“The United Kingdom views climate change as an economic and national security risk and would like to see Texas take more action on the issue, according to a representative from the British Consulate in Houston…[in testimony on the U.K.’s position…following passage last week of House Bill 788 in which an amendment to include reference to climate change was defeated…

“…The U.K. is the largest foreign investor in the U.S., with more than $400 billion invested, and is the largest foreign investor in the Lone Star State, with U.K.-owned businesses responsible for more than 70,000 jobs in Texas…”

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“According to assessments by the U.K. government, global risks posed by climate change include…Long-term drag on growth and a less stable economy…More intense, less predictable price shocks…Disruptions to global supply chains…Heightened political tensions and migration linked to water insecurity…Increased risks of instability and conflict in fragile states…[T]he U.K. considers it a priority for policy makers to address the impacts of a changing climate…”

[Cynthia Conner, policy adviser on energy, environment and resource security, Houston British Consulate:] “The global nature of trade, supply chains and commodity prices means that we will all be affected by the impacts of climate change…The U.K. understands that climate change is a sensitive issue…But it would like to see more comprehensive action in the U.S….[and] welcomes collaboration with Texas in addressing this global issue.”

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