Burnham doubles down on net zero

The PM says the UK must fully commit to reaching net zero by 2050, calling it Labour's core election promise. He wants Britain to believe in itself again on climate action.

“I am determined that we meet the commitment on which Labour was elected and reach net zero by 2050.”

Climate crisis is here now

Burnham points to the UK's hottest summer on record, with heatwaves collapsing nurses and wildfires destroying homes. He says Britons are no longer insulated from climate consequences.

“The climate crisis is not a distant threat. It is here and with us now.”

Community energy as the solution

Burnham is launching people's power projects where communities own local green energy schemes like solar panels and windfarms. He says this gives Britons a way to tackle climate change themselves.

“Community energy gives them that chance.”

Pressure over North Sea oil fields

Burnham faces criticism from Labour MPs and the Greens over whether to approve the Jackdaw gasfield and Rosebank oilfield. A decision on Jackdaw has been delayed until autumn.

Greens see political opportunity

The Green Party is challenging Labour in the Holborn and St Pancras byelection, accusing the party of being insufficiently serious on climate. The delayed Jackdaw decision fuels their criticism.

Green transition as reindustrialisation

Burnham frames net zero as Britain's best chance to reindustrialise, requiring changes to how we travel, build homes and produce energy. He sees climate action as economic opportunity.

“The green transition as the best chance we will ever have to reindustrialise Britain.”