Lib Dems 'radical' climate plans

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Liberal Democrats are to focus on climate change during their annual conference - possibly the last before the next general election.

Leader Sir Menzies Campbell, arriving at the Brighton venue in a bio-fuel powered car, said his was the only party with "radical" climate policies.

He said international, national and personal action was needed.

The conference, starting on Sunday, will also cover Britain's membership of the EU.

The objective is to make Britain carbon neutral by 2050 Sir Menzies CampbellLiberal Democrat leader

Sir Menzies said: "We are the only party with radical and detailed policies to deal with climate change.

"The objective is to make Britain carbon neutral by 2050.

"That is an objective we simply cannot afford to fail to achieve."

He dodged questions from journalists about his leadership, with his aides saying he would deal with internal party issues "head on".

Liberal Democrat president Simon Hughes said the party was "united" despite low poll ratings and doubts over Sir Menzies' position.

"The Tories have had difficulties recently, we've had no difficulty," he said.

Since Gordon Brown took over as prime minister in June there has been much speculation that he will call an election as early as May next year.