Labour Leader Criticises Tory Government for Risking Global Relations
At the Cop28 climate talks in Dubai, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer outlined his vision for a global “clean power alliance” that would lead the UK’s efforts in accelerating the energy transition. Starmer said his participation in the summit signified his government’s commitment to “leading by example” and playing a crucial role on the world stage.
In his speech, he accused Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of failing to take responsibility for the UK’s global climate role, suggesting the Conservative leadership was prioritising divisive domestic politics over international cooperation. “The Conservatives risk global relationships to make divisive political points,” Starmer said.
Starmer, who is widely tipped to become Prime Minister after the next general election, met with various world leaders during his time in Dubai, including the King of Jordan and the leaders of Iceland, Lebanon, and Barbados. He discussed plans to create an international alliance focused on reducing energy costs and boosting supply chains for renewable energy, particularly through a cooperative approach to the decarbonisation of economies.
He outlined the creation of a global “buyer’s club,” where nations would share investments, information, and resources in pursuit of cleaner, more affordable energy. This alliance would help facilitate the availability of key materials, such as Cobalt, Lithium, and Nickel, essential for renewable technologies.
Starmer’s proposal, first introduced at the World Economic Forum in Davos earlier this year, has been described as a “reverse Opec,” aimed at shifting global energy dynamics. He pledged that a Labour government would work to lower energy bills, increase energy independence, and secure a sustainable future for the UK.
The Conservative Party, according to Starmer, has failed to engage with such global ambitions, focusing instead on domestic issues that undermine Britain’s international standing. He also responded to Prime Minister Sunak’s comments on the UK becoming the world’s green finance capital, accusing him of lacking leadership on climate issues and reducing the debate to “small politics.”
The Labour leader’s trip to Dubai also saw him raise concerns about the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict during a meeting with the King of Jordan, calling for a cessation of hostilities and highlighting the rising violence on the West Bank.
