The energy regulator, Ofgem, yesterday warned that an overhaul of climate change policies is needed if Britain is to meet its greenhouse gas emission targets.

Recommendations include compulsory emissions trading and the imposition of a carbon tax.

Forum Response: Ofgem

Joanna Whittington, Ofgem director of strategy said "The government's consultation on energy policy provides the opportunity to identify and debate important issues that will shape future energy and environmental policy.

"Ofgem will continue to play an active role, working with government and others, to ensure that the most effective and efficient measures are identified to meet objectives at least cost to consumers".

Forum Response: British Energy

A spokesman for British Energy told ePolitix.com: "We believe that the UK benefits from having a mixed supply of energy sources - including nuclear, renewables, gas and coal. In terms of our future energy security, it would not be good to have to rely on gas imports."

Forum Response: Natural Environment Research Council

John Lawton, chief executive of the NERC, told ePolitix.com: "There is no quick fix to finding a sustainable energy solution. I suspect that we will be using a basket of energies and solutions for some time to come.

"What policy-makers need to recognise is the sheer scale of the problem, and the recent PIU energy review is a welcome step in this direction. Solutions do not lie in tinkering with the system, fiddling while Earth burns.

"Big issues demand big solutions: developing and building CO2 sequestration technologies; developing, manufacturing and implementing renewable energy technologies; and conducting a serious reappraisal of nuclear power."