European Parliament urges quick passage of Kyoto

The measure, passed by an overwhelming 540 votes to four, also suggested that the parliament should have more direct involvement in future decisions on cuts in emissions of so-called greenhouse gases. World environment ministers agreed in Morocco in November to implement the 1997 Kyoto pact, under which developed countries promise to limit emissions of greenhouse gases blamed for blanketing the globe and pushing up temperatures. It still needs wide ratification to enter into force. Washington pulled out of Kyoto, saying that the goal of cutting greenhouse gases by an average of five percent from 1990 levels by 2012 would damage its economy and complaining that the deal was unfair because it excludes developing states. Some members of the European Parliament said that they were concerned that some of the 15 EU member states may try to renegotiate their commitments under the Kyoto Protocol. REUTERS NEWS SERVICE