2 weeks ago, I received a FAX from Mr. Morley, the Minister of Environment of Mr. Blair's regime, whom I have introduced before. He wanted me to participate in the planning meeting of GLOBE, to be held in London on September 8.
I therefore reached London on the 8th morning via Paris, went to the hotel, changed in just 30 minutes and left for the meeting. I was a bit late and joined the conference at 10:20. The meeting was held in the Thatcher Room of Portcullis House, House of Commons which is a part of British parliament. After the announcement of resignation by the Prime Minister, the representative of Japan and Member of the House, Mr. Yoshio Yatsu decided not to participate in the meeting.
Photo 1 Photograph of participants, Mr. Morley, Member of the house in white shirt (in the center), to his right Mr. Gardiner, Member of the house. Some participants returned to their countries in the half way.
Photo 2 The venue of meeting, a new building immediate right to Big Ben (It is not seen here)
Photo 3 Mr. Tokumaru from the Ministry of the Environment
It is necessary to investigate the policies as well as approach to the "Land utilization, Forest conservation, Biodiversity, Ecosystem" which is actually very difficult. As Mr. Barry Gardiner, a member of the House of Great Britain, was in-charge and delivered a speech in the beginning followed by a series of serious discussions by about 15 participants. I think it will be a significant step if we find out the way to focus the policy from domestic to global. It may take a while, but it is very good if such discussions go ahead in a meaningful form in years to come. It is a global and very important subject but does not move forward easily.
Photo 4 At the reception, Mr. Gardiner, Member of the House, Mr. Nishigahiro, Minister to Great Britain.
The reception was organized at "The Goring Hotel", a small but sophisticated hotel which is common in London.
After staying for 24 hours in London, next morning, I am leaving for Swiss. I will send next column from there.
