CHINA promised that its emissions would peak around 2030 and to slash its carbon footprint to zero by 2060. However, China burns about half the coal used globally and is building hundreds of new coal-fired electricity plants.

Edward Cunningham at Harvard University, a specialist on China, revealed that China is financing and building or planning more than 300 new coal plants worldwide including in Turkey, Vietnam, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Egypt and the Philippines, so more greenhouse gases.

China is responsible for 30% of global emissions so the multi-billions countries are spending on preventing climate change is worthless since without China reducing its emissions the target of keeping temperatures to a maximum of 2C above pre-industrial levels will be impossible. China should not be welcomed to COP26 in Glasgow

Clark Cross

Via email

HAVING recently watched the Scottish Parliament’s questions and Covid updates on TV, I was reminded of the similarities of schooldays.

The annoying individuals who at the end of classes would ask stupid and repetitive questions already answered and those individuals who couldn’t wait to shout “please Miss” or “Mr such and such has just done whatever”. The first group obviously went on to become journalists and the second group opposition party members.

Name and address supplied

IT’S about time we get conscription put into place in this country (Cruel yobs trash school during ‘disgusting’ late night rampage, January 16).

If the parents can’t be bothered to bring their kids up right, then some time in the army will help instil a sense of discipline and at least prepare them to contribute to society. This stuff makes we wonder if China’s single-child policy would have a valid and workable application in this country.

Tim Johnston

Posted online

I AGREE wholeheartedly with P Dickson (Letters, January 15) – why should we pay more council tax for less?

There’s millions in unpaid council tax that the council seems reluctant to pursue when it is easier to charge those who do pay, more!

I understand that those owing money include council and government employees. A disgrace indeed! Take them to court or sack them.

In the meantime, perhaps the rest of us should take a stand and refuse to pay until the non-payment culprits are brought to justice.

Otherwise perhaps we could claim victimisation.

Name and address supplied