Politicians 2010
The Palace of Westminster will be taking part in WWF's Earth Hour this year. Big Ben will be turned off along with the floodlights. There will also be a reminder sent to all staff asking them to make sure all their computers, lights etc are shut off over the weekend.
WWF's Earth Hour has the official backing of around 170 MPs, including Simon Hughes, Glenda Jackson, Vince Cable, Mark Oaten, Clare Short, Dai Davies, Diane Abbot, Don Foster, Charles Kennedy, John Gummer, Jo Swinson, Menzies Campbell and George Galloway. Here's the full list - see if your MP is listed, and if not, email them now!
"It’s up to everyone, government, individuals and businesses to fight climate change. My department is already making rapid progress on reducing its emissions and we will be switching off all non-essential lighting and equipment on the day. I hope everyone will be inspired by Earth Hour’s call to action."
Energy and Climate Change Secretary, Ed Miliband
"Nelson's Column and City Hall will be plunged into darkness during Earth Hour to herald London's support for saving energy to care for our planet."
Boris Johnson, Mayor of London
And around 50 good-sport MPs came along and posed with our giant (sustainably-produced) cuddly light bulb to symbolise the ‘Eureka moment’ of signing up for Earth Hour and taking a stand against climate change.
The photos here show the MPs Simon Hughes (Liberal Democrat Shadow DECC), John Healey (Labour Housing Minister) and Peter Bottomley (Conservative).
- MPs experience Earth Hour ‘Eureka!’ moment
- See which MPs are supporting Earth Hour
- See which MPs voted to switch off Big Ben
"Energy efficiency is one of the key ways to combat climate change and by switching off lights at Earth Hour we are sending an important signal that we can live in a less wasteful way and preserve our planet for future generations."
Mark Lazarowicz MP
"I am thrilled to support Earth Hour 2010, which builds on last year’s huge success. It is vital that the government takes stronger action to combat the affects of climate change, and Earth Hour is a brilliant way of showing them that we all care about this issue."
Don Foster, MP for Bath
"Earth Hour is an excellent way for everyone to demonstrate their commitment to a greener future, and I am happy to confirm that the Department for International Development will be taking part by switching off lights in our London and Glasgow offices.
We will also encourage our offices and staff based in developing countries, many of which are already experiencing the devastating impacts of climate change, to participate in the event."
Secretary of State for International Development, Douglas Alexander