LEEDS North West MP Alex Sobel has called for urgent action to tackle climate change.

Mr Sobel, who won the seat for Labour in the General Election, raised the issue in his Maiden Speech to Parliament.

He spoke first about the diversity of his constituency, and extolled the virtues of its communities including those at Otley, Yeadon, Hyde Park, Headingley and his home ward of Weetwood.

Turning to his main subject, he said: "In the words of President Obama, 'no threat poses a greater threat to future generations than climate change'.

"This chamber is a stage where the world can hear our voice.

"It is incumbent on me to use that voice to ensure that whilst I sit on these benches I speak truth to power and be an advocate for this one issue which will define and shape our future more than any other.

"Action to tackle climate change will give us the best possible chance to save this planet, which is the only home we've got.

"Without ensuring that we take every step towards a carbon-free future, we will be judged as having failed future generations and I'm sure nobody came into this House to be a failure."

He added: "There will be many other local and national issues I'll raise in this House concerning our market towns, universities, sporting and cultural institutions, transport links and technology.

"But for today I thank you Madam Deputy Speaker for allowing me to make my maiden speech and I pledge to my constituents, and to Honourable Members, to be a strong voice in this House as well as a powerful advocate for my constituency."