Conservative Leader Accuses PM of Failing on Energy Costs
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Keir Starmer, accusing him of bailing out those on benefits instead of implementing measures to reduce soaring energy bills. The fiery exchange occurred during Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday 25 March 2026, where Badenoch claimed Starmer's policies are directly responsible for the financial strain facing families and businesses across the nation.
Energy Price Spike Blamed on Government Decisions
Mrs Badenoch asserted that energy bills remain higher than when Sir Keir assumed office, contradicting government claims of decreasing costs. She argued that the current spike in energy prices results from the Prime Minister's refusal to abolish green taxes on household bills, halt planned fuel duty increases, and approve new gas drilling licenses in the North Sea. "What is he doing? He is planning another giveaway to people on welfare," Badenoch declared. "Yet again, he is taking money from those who do work to give to those who don't."
The Conservative leader specifically referenced the Rosebank and Jackdaw drilling sites, pressing Starmer to approve new licenses to boost domestic energy production. She characterised the government's approach as "the bailout for Benefit Street," suggesting Labour has abandoned its traditional working-class base to become "the welfare party."
Prime Minister Defends Record and Blames Middle East Conflict
In a robust response, Sir Keir Starmer shifted blame for rising energy costs to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has driven up global oil and gas prices. He accused Mrs Badenoch of consistently "getting the big calls absolutely wrong," citing her support for British involvement in the war and opposition to government measures on energy security and bill reductions. "She wanted to drag us into the war. She got that wrong," Starmer stated, emphasising his commitment to keeping Britain out of the conflict while acting in collective self-defence with allies.
The Prime Minister insisted that decisions on North Sea drilling licenses fall under the purview of the Energy Secretary, not his direct authority. He defended his administration's actions as being "in the best interests of our country," contrasting them with what he portrayed as Badenoch's reckless positions.
Liberal Democrats and Former Tory Leader Weigh In
Later in the parliamentary session, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey accused Mrs Badenoch of shedding "crocodile tears" over the Iran war, noting she had previously "cheered on this illegal war without a thought for the impact on people's energy bills." Davey also criticised former US President Donald Trump, suggesting his social media posts about negotiations with Iran enabled traders to profit from oil futures through potential insider information. "This looks like corruption of the very worst kind," Davey asserted, questioning whether Trump's war decisions prioritise enriching associates over Middle East peace.
Former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith urged the Prime Minister to proscribe the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), describing them as a "brutal bunch of thugs." Sir Keir responded that the IRGC has been sanctioned "in its entirety," but explained that existing proscription powers are not designed for state organisations, though the matter remains under review.
Chancellor Reeves Announces Targeted Household Support
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has confirmed that work is underway to provide targeted assistance for households when the current energy price cap expires at the end of June. With global energy market fluctuations threatening to push domestic bills higher, the government is preparing contingency measures to mitigate the impact on consumers. The rising costs have already affected motorists at fuel pumps and may lead to increased household energy expenses later this year, adding urgency to the political debate over energy policy and welfare spending.
