Whether they are sincere is a side issue a this point. When is the last time we saw Republicans do anything remotely similar? The leadership today can't even admit that it's a problem so agreeing to take action against climate change would be a negative during the primary where each Republican tries to out-stupid the other. Any sign of forward thinking (and lack of knuckle-dragging) will be a sign of weakness in their circles, leading to defeat. For now, at least, the knuckle-dragging is limited to the backbenchers in the UK.
Organisers of the 10:10 campaign said last night that more than 8,000 individuals had signed up. Some 270 businesses, including law firm Pinsent Masons, Reed Recruitment, Ocado and Oracle, and four major power companies, have so far pledged their support, as well as nine councils, 42 schools and 125 other organisations, such as the thinktank Demos.
Actor Alan Rickman, comedian Shazia Mirza and former England footballer Graeme Le Saux were among those who committed to cut their own emissions yesterday, joining a roster of high profile backers that includes Delia Smith, Colin Firth, Nicholas Stern and Stella McCartney.
The shadow energy secretary, Greg Clark, said: "Conservatives strongly support this campaign. Once again it shows how voluntary action can show the way, proving that a low-carbon future is an essential, achievable and urgent priority."
Energy and climate secretary Ed Miliband spoke to the 10:10 launch event at Tate Modern from India via phone link. He pledged to cut his personal carbon footprint and emissions from his department's headquarters by 10% in 2010.
