David Leads a debate on Global Population growth.

On Wednesday 4th February  David Kidney will lead a debate in Parliament about population growth. He explains that the world’s population has a major bearing on issues of climate change and scarce resources:

“More than 6 billion humans live on our planet today and this number is forecast to rise to 9 billion by the middle of the century. We cannot shy away from this uncomfortable truth. It is integral to all we must do to tackle climate change, feed ourselves and power our homes, businesses and transport. In short, population size is a key part of the equation as we work out how to live more sustainably.

“Let me make clear, however, that I do not think that society should interfere in the free choices people make about having children. I want the world community to discuss all aspects of sustainable development and this includes population size. In my debate I plan to focus on two points.

“First, given the fact of a growing population how can we manage the world’s resources to meet need? We need smarter ways of providing water for drinking, washing and irrigation, smarter ways of farming to produce enough food for everyone. And as we know from our plans in the UK for cutting carbon emissions, we have also got to replace carbon-based energy with renewable sources.

“Secondly, can we agree that, on balance, the world will be a safer place if we can stabilise the human population at a lower level than currently forecast? If so, people who rely on large families to combat fear of childhood deaths and poverty need to be reassured that healthcare and wealth can be had. We all have to agree that education, family planning and health services should be universal rights.

“This important subject is not talked about enough in public. I’m looking forward to my debate helping to open up the debate in a constructive way.”

The debate proposed by David is called Global Population Growth. It takes place in Westminster Hall at 11.00 am on Wednesday 4 February. The Minister responding to the debate is International Development’s Ivan Lewis MP.

For further information CONTACT David Kidney on his mobile 07966 378844 or David’s offices on 020 7219 6472 or 01785 224444

It may be possible to see this live on BBC Parliament. The Westminster Hall debates are also shown on BBC parliament during the following weekend.

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