Switch to an accessible version of this website which is easier to read. (requires cookies)

Did Blair silence David King under US pressure? - Baker

March 8, 2004 1:09 PM

Norman Baker MPReports in The Independent today claim that a leaked memo proves Downing Street attempted to silence the chief scientific adviser, Sir David King, after he warned global warming was more serious a threat than terrorism.

Commenting, Norman Baker MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Environment Secretary, said:

"If these reports are true, this is a disgraceful attempt by the Prime Minister's office to muzzle the country's leading scientist.

"Blair must now make a clear statement explaining why this unacceptable and ill-judged memo was sent by his principal private secretary. Did Blair censor Sir David King to prevent the Americans becoming upset, or was it a direct result of American pressure?

"Sir David has a duty, on behalf of the nation, to speak up. He must not be pushed around like some trainee civil servant. His advice that climate change is at least as big a threat to us as terrorism is clear, and has been echoed by Hans Blix only yesterday.

"The Prime Minister is letting the country down. He needs to show the same urgency in tackling climate change as he has done in tackling terrorism. Sadly, it seems he's keener to cave into the Americans."

What would you like to do next?

  • Subscribe for updates

    Read updates from this website in your desktop or online news reader

    • On a news reader website

      •  
      •  
      •  

      In a desktop news reader or a website not listed above

      •  
    • Example monthly digest email
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your contact details, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting


    • Generate different image

    Join our email list

    • If you submit your contact details, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting


    • Generate different image
  • Share this page

    Share this page on another website

    Link to this page

    On websites and printed material:
    greenlibdems.org.uk/en/article/2004/013888/did-blair-silence-david-king-under-us-pressure-baker
    In text messages, Twitter, or reading over the phone:
    grn.lib.dm/a8zT

    Email this page to a friend


    • Generate different image
  • Help out or donate

    Help out in your local area

      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your contact details, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting


    • Generate different image
  • Tell us what you think

    Send us your views

    • If you agree, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you provide to contact you about issues you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of these contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image