Lobbying Act 'stifling environment debate' in election campaign

Law restricting NGOs in run up to polling day have pushed climate and pollution issues off the election agenda, say opposition parties and green groups

Debate on environmental issues has been stifled in the run-up the general election leaving voters in the dark , opposition parties have claimed, as a result of the Lobbying Act and government determination to avoid criticism over problems such as air pollution.

Green groups have privately raised concern, along with other charities, over the impact of the law, and now have the support of all major parties apart from the Conservatives.