Mr Prescott gave this message when he met representatives of 77 developing countries at Downing Street on Thursday. If negotiations drag on much longer, Kyoto targets may well be out of reach Developing countries, especially low-lying islands, want urgent action and a pledge from rich nations, particularly the US, that they will cut carbon dioxide emissions from transport fumes and industry.
Pollution is believed by many scientists to be responsible for the onset of climate change.
Meeting in The Hague in the Netherlands, delegates will try to set up a system of carbon trading permits and other mechanisms to reduce greenhouse gases. Developed countries need to start taking domestic action now if they are to meet their Kyoto targets. Further delay will just play into the hands of those who would like to see Kyoto fail. We need to prove them wrong by succeeding in The Hague. Those attending Thursday's meeting in Downing Street included the presidents of Nigeria and Algeria, the prie ministers of Jamaica and Malaysia, and the South African high commissioner.