進入英語學習論壇下載音頻

WASHINGTON: All seven Republicans on the US Senate Environment and Public Works Committee plan to boycott this week's work session on a climate-change bill, an aide said on Saturday, in a move aimed at thwarting Democratic efforts to advance the legislation quickly.

"Republicans will be forced not to show up" at tomorrow's work session, said Matt Dempsey, a spokesman for Republican senators on the environment panel.

Under committee rules, at least two Republicans are needed for Chairwoman Barbara Boxer to hold the work sessions that would give senators an opportunity to amend the controversial legislation and then vote to approve it in the panel - controlled by President Barack Obama's fellow Democrats.

But Republicans are demanding more detailed economic analysis of the bill by the US Environmental Protection Agency - a task that could take more than a month - before agreeing to participate in the work sessions that are called "mark ups".

The seven Republicans have not indicated they ultimately would vote for the bill, which Boxer wants to move through her committee before December's international climate change summit in Copenhagen.

Even with committee approval of the bill, the full Senate is not expected to vote on it this year. Nevertheless, the Obama administration is hoping for more progress by Congress before the Copenhagen summit.

Boxer's bill would require US manufacturers, utilities and refineries to reduce their carbon pollution output 20 percent by 2020, from 2005 levels.

Questions:

1. How many Republicans have plans to boycott the work meetings?

2. What agency must provide more detailed economic analysis for the republicans before they attend work meetings?

3. What percentage of carbon pollution output decrease would Boxer’s bill require of US manufacturers, utilities and refineries?

Answers:

1. 7.

2. Environmental Protection Agency.

3. 20 percent.

（英語點津 Helen 編輯）

About the broadcaster:

Chantal Anderson is a multimedia journalist at the China Daily Web site. Originally from Seattle, Washington she has found her way around the world doing photo essays in Greece, Mexico and Thailand. She is currently completing a double degree in Journalism and International Studies from the University of Washington.