Action on energy costs is my overriding aim, says Fahnbulleh

Labour has faced extra political pressure over its climate ambitions since coming to power, as Reform UK rose in opinion polls and the Conservatives under Kemi Badenoch disowned their previous ambition of reaching net zero by 2050.

Both opposition parties have taken particular aim at public subsidy schemes designed to boost renewable sources of electricity generation, arguing that the drive for cleaner energy has driven up costs for consumers.

UK households currently pay one of the highest rates for electricity in Europe.

Bills have increased due to subsidies but also because of the high price of gas (a fossil fuel) driven up by international conflicts.