Labour insiders reveal decision to drop flagship promise
The Labour Party, under the leadership of Sir Keir Starmer, has abandoned its pledge to spend £28 billion annually on eco projects. This decision comes after internal discussions about the feasibility and funding of the promise. Shadow Energy Secretary Ed Miliband and other figures within the party attempted to dissuade Sir Keir, but their efforts were unsuccessful. The party now plans to focus on turning Britain into a clean energy superpower without specifying a monetary figure.
Questions arise over funding for Labour's green policies
In light of this abandonment, Labour is now facing increased scrutiny over how it plans to pay for its green policies. Sir Keir argues that these policies are essential for economic growth, but the lack of a specific funding commitment raises concerns. The initial £28 billion pledge had already been scaled back due to funding disagreements. Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves had previously downgraded the promise to simply hitting the target by 2027.
Conservatives criticize Labour's unfunded promise
The Conservative Party has been quick to criticize Labour's abandoned pledge, arguing that it would result in either spiraling debt or increased taxes. Chancellor Rishi Sunak referred to it as a "£28 billion tax grab." The Tories have weaponized the figure as an example of Labour's unfunded promises. Labour's decision to drop the £28 billion figure comes after a "campaign bible" released this week omitted it.
Labour's commitment to green energy remains
Despite abandoning the £28 billion promise, Labour remains committed to its broader campaign mission to "Switch On Great British Energy." This mission includes plans for a publicly-owned energy company and targets to double onshore wind capacity and triple solar power by 2030.
