Keir Starmer abandoned net zero to court Reform voters. He failed

"We're paying the price for our overexposure to the rollercoaster of international fossil fuel markets, he said. Homegrown clean energy is the only way to take back control of our energy system. For many who know Starmer, that speech reflected his genuine and rationally thought-out view. Climate action is not only necessary but economically beneficial, and can help the UK avoid future cost of living crises."

"But throughout his premiership, Downing Street has also been home to senior advisers sceptical about green issues. They have sought to stifle Starmer's pro-climate interventions, watered down environmental policy and tried to steer Labour towards Reform and the Conservatives' anti-net-zero stances."

"Labour's internecine fighting left it vulnerable and its messaging confused: Reform targeted the Labour seat, but the Greens with a message of hope, faith in public services and strong environmental action romped to victory."

Prime Minister Keir Starmer previously declared climate action central to his government's agenda, arguing that homegrown clean energy is essential for economic stability and energy independence. However, senior advisers within Downing Street skeptical of green policies have actively undermined these pro-climate interventions, watering down environmental policy and pushing Labour toward anti-net-zero positions aligned with Reform and Conservative stances. This internal division created confused messaging that left Labour vulnerable. The Green Party capitalized on this weakness, winning the safe Labour seat of Gorton and Denton with a message emphasizing environmental action, public services, and hope. This byelection defeat forces Starmer to confront critical questions about his leadership direction and whether he will reassert his genuine pro-climate instincts or continue following anti-green advisers.

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