Rishi Sunak Stands Firm Against 'Extreme' Net Zero Critics at Conservative Party Conference

PM Rishi Sunak Defends Delaying Ban on New Petrol Cars

Rishi Sunak, the UK Prime Minister, strongly criticized his "extreme" critics of the Net Zero policy as he opened his first Conservative Party Conference. He recently delayed the 2030 ban on new petrol cars and vowed to end the war on motorists. Sunak warned that these critics will continue to come after him, stating, "They came for me and they will keep coming."

Stepping Up Leadership and Rejecting Immediate Tax Cuts

In his address to Conservative Party members, Sunak insisted that his leadership was stepping up a gear. He compared himself to former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, batting away calls for immediate tax cuts. He pitched himself as the real change option at the next election and argued against being dominated by people on the extremes who believe in pursuing the Net Zero policy at any cost to ordinary people.

Defending the Slowdown of Green Targets

Sunak passionately defended his decision to slow down green targets, acknowledging that change can be uncomfortable for people. He firmly stated that he believes in doing the right thing for the country, despite any criticism or backlash. He emphasized that he is committed to charting a new course for net zero that will save ordinary families significant amounts of money.

Pressure for Tax Cuts

On the first full day of the conference, Sunak faced pressure from Cabinet member Michael Gove to implement tax cuts. Gove suggested reducing income tax or national insurance instead of inheritance tax, in order to incentivize people to work harder and be better rewarded for their efforts. However, Sunak resisted these demands, arguing that bringing down inflation, which is hitting households, is the best tax cut he can deliver.

Strong Opposition to Labour Party

Despite facing challenges, recent opinion polls have shown a narrowing of the Labour Party's lead, which has buoyed Sunak. However, party chief Greg Hands cautioned that the government will still enter next year's General Election as "the underdogs." Hands highlighted the positive impact of Rishi Sunak's leadership, the lack of enthusiasm for the Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, and the poor track record of Labour-run areas in the country.