Gore praises climate 'leadership'

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Former US vice president Al Gore has praised both Gordon Brown and David Cameron for their "leadership" in dealing with environmental problems.

Mr Gore addressed the Conservative frontbench before a private meeting with Mr Cameron, and then talks with the chancellor.

He said the UK should be proud that there was a "healthy political dialogue" about climate change.

Mr Gore said he wished such a debate could happen in the US.

"I think that it is something the United Kingdom should recognise and be proud of, that there is such a debate here that is constructive and is focussed on meaningful solutions."

He said it was a "great credit to the leadership position" that the chancellor and the government had taken, both at home and abroad.

Mr Brown described Mr Gore as an "inspiration" in drawing the world's attention to climate change.

'Missionary' work

"For the sake of the next generation we must become the environmental generation and I believe we can build a global partnership for action that stretches across every continent," he said.

Mr Gore earlier praised the role Mr Cameron had played in promoting environmental issues.

"The fact that both your political parties are competing vigorously to offer solutions is very important," he told Tory frontbenchers.

"I can assure you that people around the world really are watching and are appreciating the quality of this debate."