Labour MPs in Red Wall seats are increasingly calling for a more realistic approach to net zero that does not damage the economy or cost thousands of blue-collar jobs, according to political commentator Tim Newark. The push comes as Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband attend COP31 in Turkey, where they are discussing international action on climate change.
Newark argues that climate change is already happening and that impoverishing Britain during a cost-of-living crisis is not a sensible response. He points to the recent decision to cut electric vehicle (EV) sales targets by a quarter, a plan finalised by Louise Haigh, de facto deputy prime minister, to avoid crippling fines for the British car industry missing the 2035 target of 100% EVs.
Backbenchers oppose Energy Independence Bill
Some Labour backbenchers fear this represents backsliding on their green agenda, but Labour MPs in Red Wall seats are pushing for a more practical approach. Their objections are solidifying around the government's newly-introduced Energy Independence Bill, which would outlaw any new exploration of the North Sea.
Dissenting backbenchers argue it is perverse and hypocritical to import vast amounts of gas and oil from abroad while choking off domestic energy resources. The Jackdaw gas field has been opened, but the larger Rosebank oil field is hanging in the balance as eco-warrior MPs argue their case.
Energy security as national security
Henry Tufnell, Labour MP for Mid and South Pembrokeshire, said: "We think that energy security is national security. We think it can bring huge benefits for economic growth and ultimately protect lots of jobs."
David Bucknall, CEO of INEOS Energy, added: "The pipelines, platforms, ports, and skilled workforce needed for energy production are already in place. We could use these resources to meet the needs of UK consumers more quickly, cheaply, and securely than bringing energy in from elsewhere."
Newark compares the politicians at COP31 to King Canute, suggesting they cannot halt a process that has occurred over millions of years. He notes that Britain has experienced jungle heat and ice sheets in its prehistoric past and is currently in an interglacial period with slight warming that could benefit agriculture and tourism.
Economic growth funds welfare state
The net zero bandwagon has gained momentum because left-wing politicians and activists see it as an excuse to bring down capitalism and industrialisation, Newark writes. However, he argues that economic growth funds the welfare state and that without domestic energy production and dynamic industries, there are fewer jobs and fewer taxes paid.
Both the Conservatives and Reform have made clear their opposition to net zero. Newark concludes that Labour backbenchers must strongly make their case for a return to energy production and industrial jobs, describing it as a battle for the future of the country.
