In a striking challenge to his party leadership, senior Conservative MP James Cleverly has openly criticized Kemi Badenoch’s decision to abandon the UK’s net-zero commitments, exposing growing fractures within the party over climate policy. Speaking at a recent Conservative Environment Network event, cleverly made it clear he disagreed with the government’s new direction, calling out what he described as “neo-Luddites” within the party who are resistant to embracing green technologies. His remarks are a rare example of public dissent and reflect a broader concern among centrist Conservatives that the party is turning its back on one of the defining global challenges of our time.
Badenoch, who leads the party following last year’s leadership contest, recently announced that the government would scrap the legally binding target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, arguing that it was unrealistic and economically damaging. While she claimed the decision would relieve pressure on businesses and households, critics argue it sends the wrong message about the UK’s role in the global effort to tackle climate change. Cleverly, a former Foreign Secretary and longstanding advocate of conservative environmentalism, took issue with this framing, insisting that economic growth and environmental sustainability are not mutually exclusive.
He emphasized that the UK has the potential to be a world leader in clean energy and green innovation, noting that smart investments in climate-friendly technology could boost the economy, create jobs, and enhance energy security. For Cleverley, walking away from net zero isn’t just bad policy, it’s a missed opportunity. His comments reflect a broader unease within the party, where more moderate voices worry that abandoning green goals could alienate younger voters and business leaders invested in the clean energy transition.
Although party officials tried to downplay the rift by insisting Cleverly and Badenoch ultimately share the same vision for sustainable growth, the contrast in their positions was unmistakable. Cleverley’s intervention adds to the growing list of senior Tories questioning the direction of Badenoch’s leadership as the party continues to struggle with falling poll numbers and a perceived lack of fresh policy ideas.
The clash over climate strategy is likely to intensify in the months ahead as the UK heads into a critical period for both environmental policy and political leadership. For now, Cleverley’s stand has reignited a long-simmering debate within the Conservative ranks, one that could shape the party’s identity and influence for years to come.
