MP joins Big Turn Off

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 25th Oct 2004

Local MP John Thurso has signed up for this week's Big Turn Off which marks the eighth annual Energy Efficiency Week organised by the Energy Savings Trust. He has added his name to a Parliamentary Motion calling on fellow MPs to join him in switching off any electrical appliances not in use during the period from 2-3pm on Friday, 29th October.

The motion supports a nationwide campaign by the Energy Saving Trust which advises the public on ways to save money by using energy more efficiently. The aim is to persuade people simultaneously to turn off any electrical appliances that are not in use and to encourage individuals to think about the consequences of their everyday use of energy.

John Thurso said:

"The energy we waste in our homes produces carbon dioxide emissions, one of the main contributors to climate change. Many people simply don't realise how much energy it takes to leave their TV or PC on standby. The truth is that such appliances will use almost as much energy in this state as when they are in full use.

This is a simple means of both saving money and helping to save the environment. It is common sense to turn off. My wife and my office will be joining the Big Turn Off this Friday and I hope many others will participate with us".

Philip Sellwood, Chief Executive of the Energy Saving Trust, added:

"I really hope that as many people as possible in the North Highlands take part in the Big Turn Off. If we can get used to thinking about the way we use, and often waste, energy, we can start making real progress towards tackling climate change - and save on fuel bills at the same time".