In a significant departure from the UK's previous approach to tackling climate change, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak delivered a speech at Downing Street on Wednesday, signalling a shift in the country's climate strategy. While taking the risk of potential opposition within his own political party, Sunak announced the delay of key climate targets with the intention of alleviating everyday expenses for hardworking families.
Sunak asserted, "I’m here today to tell you that we do not have to be powerless, our future doesn’t have to be a foregone conclusion," adding, "Do we really want to change our country and build a better future for our children, or do we want to carry on as we are? I’ve made my decision. We are going to change, and over the coming months, I will set out a series of long-term decisions to deliver that change."
This shift in approach commenced with a renewed perspective on one of the most pressing challenges facing the nation: climate change. The prime minister expressed concern that if the current path is continued, it could lead to a loss of public support and hinder the achievement of climate goals.
Speaking in front of a podium bearing the Tory conference slogan, "long-term decisions for a brighter future," Sunak emphasized, "The Climate Change Committee have rightly said you don’t reach net zero simply by wishing it. No one in Westminster politics has yet had the courage to look people in the eye and explain what’s really involved. That’s wrong, and it changes now."
Sunak highlighted various aspects of the climate strategy that had been imposed on behalf of the citizens, including the phasing out of gas boilers, mandatory home upgrades, proposed taxes on meat consumption and air travel, as well as government directives on waste disposal.
The prime minister questioned the imposition of substantial costs on working people, particularly those who are already grappling with financial constraints, and the extensive interference in people's lifestyles without a well-informed national debate. He argued that transparency was essential.
Sunak revealed plans to scale back climate targets to alleviate household expenses. He confirmed that households would not be forced to replace their existing boilers with heat pumps, a costly proposition for many. Instead, the switch to heat pumps would only be required when replacing a boiler, and this transition would not be enforced until 2035. Additionally, a new exemption would be introduced for low-income households, sparing them from the obligation entirely.
Regarding electric vehicles, Sunak emphasized consumer choice, stating that individuals should have the liberty to decide whether to switch to an electric car. He noted that electric vehicles were becoming increasingly attractive due to cost reductions, improved range, and expanded charging infrastructure. Sunak affirmed that petrol and diesel vehicles would still be available for purchase until 2035 and could also be sold second-hand even after that date.
The prime minister concluded by affirming the government's commitment to assisting with boiler upgrades, stating that the boiler upgrade scheme, which provides cash grants to upgrade boilers, would be increased by 50% to £7,500, with no repayment obligations.
Sunak acknowledged the reality of climate change, underscored by recent extreme weather events, but emphasized the importance of democratic debate in shaping policies that affect people's lives.
