Kemi Badenoch, a leading candidate in the Conservative Party leadership contest, has reportedly drawn up a list of Tory MPs categorising them by their beliefs on the climate crisis, according to party sources. The move has deepened internal divisions within the party over environmental policy.
Badenoch's Climate Stance
Badenoch, who served as Business and Trade Secretary under Rishi Sunak, has long been sceptical of net-zero targets and has argued against what she calls "alarmist" climate policies. Her list, described by insiders as a "hit list," separates MPs into those who accept mainstream climate science and those who question it, with the aim of rallying support among climate-sceptic factions.
According to a Conservative Party source, Badenoch's team has been "actively canvassing" MPs to gauge their positions on climate change, seeking to build a coalition around her leadership bid. The source added that the list includes "dozens of names" across both camps.
Internal Party Reactions
The revelation has sparked backlash from moderate Tories, who accuse Badenoch of "weaponising" climate policy for political gain. One senior Conservative MP, speaking anonymously, said: "This is a divisive tactic that undermines the party's commitment to tackling climate change. We should be uniting around evidence-based policies, not creating lists of who is 'with us' or 'against us.'"
However, Badenoch's supporters argue that she is simply reflecting the views of many grassroots members who are sceptical of costly net-zero targets. A source close to her campaign stated: "Kemi is listening to party members who feel their concerns have been ignored. The climate debate should be open to different perspectives, not shut down."
Impact on Leadership Race
The development comes as the Conservative leadership contest intensifies, with candidates vying to succeed Sunak. Badenoch is seen as a frontrunner alongside other contenders such as Robert Jenrick and James Cleverly. Her climate stance could appeal to the party's right wing but risks alienating centrist voters ahead of the next general election.
Polling data from YouGov indicates that 68% of Conservative members believe climate change is a serious threat, but a significant minority—around 25%—question the severity or human role in it. Badenoch's list appears to target this latter group.
Official Responses
The Conservative Party headquarters declined to comment on the list, stating that internal campaign matters are private. However, a spokesperson for the party said: "The Conservative Party is committed to reaching net-zero by 2050 in a pragmatic way that does not burden families and businesses. We encourage all candidates to focus on policies that unite the party."
Environmental groups have condemned the move. Greenpeace UK's policy director said: "This is a dangerous game from a would-be prime minister. Denying the climate crisis is not a legitimate political position; it is a threat to our future. Conservative MPs should reject this divisive approach."
As the leadership race continues, Badenoch's strategy highlights the ongoing struggle within the Conservative Party over its environmental direction, with potential implications for UK climate policy.
