Sir Keir Starmer condemns Just Stop Oil demands as ‘despicable’

According to Sir Keir Starmer, the message from Just Stop Oil to turn off the taps in the North Sea is “contemptible.” In an article for The Times, he distances himself from the campaign group, as the Tories criticize Labour for accepting £1.5 million in donations from the backer of Just Stop Oil, Dale Vince. Sir Keir clarifies that he would only prohibit the granting of new licenses for oil and gas exploration in the North Sea, aiming to provide businesses with certainty. He emphasizes that Labour has a plan to manage the transition to net zero and that he will not compromise the nation’s long-term interests for short-term political gain, unlike the Conservatives. Sir Keir criticizes Just Stop Oil’s approach of simply turning off the taps, stating that it would create chaos for working people, much like the chaos they cause on the roads. He also criticizes their opposition to nuclear power, considering it vital for reducing energy bills and ensuring energy security for working people. Sir Keir pledges that Labour will work with the oil and gas sector to facilitate a managed transition to net zero. Additionally, they will attract investment in future energy production in the North Sea, including technologies like carbon capture and storage and hydrogen.

Rishi Sunak’s recent tougher stance on net zero issues has gained him popularity among Tory members. However, his plans to maximize oil and gas reserves to grow the economy and secure energy security after pressure from Vladimir Putin has angered climate activists and environmentally-conscious Tories. The narrow victory of the Tories in the Uxbridge and South Ruislip by-election has prompted calls for a reassessment of climate crisis alleviation strategies.

Mr. Sunak has positioned himself as being on the side of motorists, linking the failure of Labour to win the election to London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s Ulez anti-emissions charge. Amidst a cost-of-living crisis, the Prime Minister has ordered a review of low-traffic neighbourhood (LTN) schemes, as some Tories argue for the relaxation of environmental measures. However, Environment Secretary Therese Coffey warns that abandoning green policies could cost the Conservatives the next general election. She asserts that it is crucial to demonstrate care for the environment without burdening hard-working people. Therese Coffey reassures that the government is committed to achieving net-zero by 2050 and urges people to trust their track record rather than relying on clickbait.