Khan Presses Burnham to Commit on Climate
The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has urged the Prime Minister to recommit to climate action, warning against “climate denial” as the government signals a softening of its net zero targets. His intervention, in an article, adds to pressure from the green wing of Labour after reports that ministers may slow the switch to electric vehicles. It reflects growing unease on the left over the direction of energy policy.
Mr Khan’s public challenge to Andy Burnham exposes a widening fault line in Labour between those who see net zero as an economic opportunity and those who fear its costs are turning voters towards Reform UK. The Prime Minister’s warmer words on North Sea oil and hints at easing green rules have alarmed campaigners who thought the argument settled. With the drought and heatwaves a vivid backdrop, the politics of climate are sharpening. How Mr Burnham balances the competing pressures will define a central plank of his government. Watch whether he holds the line on net zero or trims it further.