May 1, 2006. Friends of the Earth. 76 percent in London back new climate law as Thom Yorke plays sell- out climate change gig.

Over three quarters of people in Greater London would support the introduction of a new law to combat climate change, a new survey revealed today (1 May). The results were released as some of the UK's top musicians prepare to play 'The Big Ask Live' - a sell out bank holiday concert at KOKO in London in support of The Big Ask, Friends of the Earth's climate campaign.

The national online survey, conducted for Friends of the Earth by TNS, asked 1000 people aged between the ages of 16 and 64 if they would support the introduction of a new law requiring the Government to tackle climate change by making annual reductions in UK carbon dioxide emissions, as called for by 'The Big Ask' campaign. The campaign is backed by over half of UK MPs including London MPs Lee Scott, Joan Ruddock and Sarah Teather.

Results also showed that there is strong support for a new climate change law across all age groups and all social groups.

'The Big Ask Live' line up includes Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood from Radiohead; Gruff Rhys, lead singer of the Super Furry Animals; and Kate Rusby, voted the Best Live Act in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. The concert, which is being hosted by comedian Simon Amstell, has attracted support from music fans, celebrities, and politicians.

The London gig is the highlight of a series of concerts being held across the country in support of 'The Big Ask,' a Friends of the Earth campaign that is calling on the UK government to take action to combat climate change. Friends of the Earth is calling for the introduction of new climate change laws which would force the government to cut emissions of carbon dioxide, the main greenhouse gas, by three per cent every year. For more information go to www.thebigask.com.

Climate change has topped the political agenda for much of the year yet carbon dioxide emissions in the UK continue to rise.

Friends of the Earth Director, Tony Juniper said: "Like Thom Yorke and the other artists playing The Big Ask Live, the vast majority of people want to see the Government take action to tackle climate change. This means a new climate change law that would require the Government to make annual reductions in the UK's carbon emissions."

Thom Yorke from Radiohead who helped launch The Big Ask campaign in May 2005 said: "The best thing about 'The Big Ask' for me is the fact that there's no longer this sense of powerlessness, which is what I had for so long about climate change."

Gruff Rhys said: "Climate change is going to affect us all so we all need to do something about it. That's why I am supporting The Big Ask - Friends of the Earth's Climate Campaign."

Kate Rusby said: "I am totally delighted to be performing at The Big Ask Live. Not only will it be a great night of music - it's an opportunity for me to help highlight that there is something people can do about climate change by supporting Friends of the Earth's climate campaign - The Big Ask."