PM Rishi Sunak strikes back

Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister, came out swinging at the start of the Conservative Party Conference, hitting back at his "extreme" critics of the Net Zero policy. He made it clear that he would not be deterred by opposition, stating, "They came for me and they will keep coming."

Claiming the leadership

Speaking to party members at his first conference since taking office, Sunak asserted that his leadership was stepping up a gear. He also deflected calls for immediate tax cuts, comparing himself to Margaret Thatcher and positioning himself as the real change option for next year's election.

A defense of his actions

Sunak passionately defended his decision to slow down green targets, emphasizing that change may be uncomfortable for some but it was necessary for the greater good. He asserted that he was not going to back down, stating, "I'm not going to shy away from that." Furthermore, he outlined his commitment to charting a new course for net zero, arguing that it would save ordinary families thousands of pounds.

Pressure for tax cuts

Despite calls for tax cuts, Sunak is resisting the demands, insisting that bringing down inflation is the best way to ease the burden on households. He stated that this approach aligns with the tradition of great Conservative governments, citing Margaret Thatcher and Nigel Lawson as examples.

Tories face an uphill battle

While recent opinion polls have shown Labour's lead narrowing, Tory party chief Greg Hands cautioned party members that the government would enter the next general election as "the underdogs." Hands also criticized Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, accusing him of being untrustworthy and ineffective.