The UK government has promised to continue to make extensive cuts in emissions of gases thought to cause climate change.

The Environment Secretary, Margaret Beckett, says she believes a 60 per cent cut in carbon dioxide emissions can be achieved by 2050.

Speaking at the launch of a United Nations report on the UK's performance in cutting emissions Mrs Beckett said progress was good.

'We have made significant reductions in emissions and now aim to go much further to get us on the path of a 60 per cent cut in carbon dioxide emissions by 2050,' she declared.

'And on the path to that, we remain committed to our domestic goal of carbon emissions going down by 20 per cent by 2010,' she added.

The UNFCCC says the UK has 'succeeded remarkably' in cutting emissions by 12.8 per cent already, and has made 'commendable progress'.