London, March 22 (ANI): A group of British MPs has accused the Government of ignoring the problem of air pollution even as it kills 50,000 people annually.

Dubbing the situation a “national disgrace”, the lawmakers have cautioned the Government that if the cities of the UK continue to violate the EU’s air pollution norms the country could be fined heavily.

Poor air condition can worsen asthma and increase the risk of heart and lung problems.

It is even believed that the poor quality of air is shortening people’s lives by 7-8 months.

“Air pollution probably causes more deaths than passive smoking, traffic accidents or obesity, yet it receives very little attention,” Sky News quoted Tim Yeo MP, Chair of the Environmental Audit Committee, as saying.

He added: “In the worst affected areas this invisible killer could be taking years off the lives of people most at risk, such as those with asthma.”

“We agree that efforts must continue to reduce air pollution levels and further improve air quality,” a Government spokesman said.

He added: “Air pollution does have an effect on human health but the action needed is mainly appropriate regulation for polluting activities.

“The focus of Department of Health campaigns remains on what individuals can do to directly improve and protect their health.” (ANI)