A major Conservative Party rift has burst into the open as leadership contender Kemi Badenoch declared her intention to repeal the UK's flagship Climate Change Act, prompting dismay from senior Tories and environmental experts.
Bold Pledge Sparks Internal Backlash
In a move that has sent shockwaves through Westminster, the former business secretary announced she would scrap the 2008 legislation that legally binds Britain to reduce carbon emissions. The controversial pledge immediately drew criticism from within her own party, with several prominent Conservatives warning it would damage both the UK's international reputation and economic stability.
Senior Tories Voice Alarm
Former energy minister Chris Skidmore, who led a recent government review of net zero, described the proposal as "economically illiterate" and warned it would create investment chaos. "This would be the single worst decision of any government in the past 50 years," he stated bluntly.
Other senior figures expressed concern privately, with one describing the move as "electoral suicide" that would alienate moderate voters and younger generations increasingly concerned about environmental issues.
Business Community Reacts
The business secretary's announcement has also alarmed industry leaders who have invested billions in transitioning to greener technologies. Many fear that abandoning long-term climate commitments would create uncertainty that could jeopardise Britain's competitive edge in renewable energy and clean technology sectors.
What the Climate Change Act Does
- Legally binds UK to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 100% of 1990 levels by 2050
- Requires government to set five-year carbon budgets
- Establishes the Committee on Climate Change to advise ministers
- Has been hailed as world-leading environmental legislation
Leadership Calculations
Political analysts suggest Badenoch's move represents a calculated appeal to the Conservative right wing ahead of the leadership contest. However, critics argue that positioning against established climate commitments risks making the party appear divided and out of touch with public concern about environmental issues.
The deepening divide within Tory ranks highlights the ongoing tension between economic concerns and environmental commitments that continues to shape British politics.
