Coffee House Shots What is Tony Blair up to?
Apr 30, 2025
John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair, dives into the political turmoil surrounding Blair's recent report on net zero, sparking debates about Labour’s green agenda. They discuss whether Labour should heed Blair’s advice as local elections loom. With polling suggesting Labour may face losses, McTernan analyzes potential shifts in voter sentiment and the party's strategic responses. The conversation also highlights the dynamic relationship between Blair and current leaders, emphasizing emotional connections in contemporary politics.
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Blair on Green Transition Costs
- Tony Blair highlights that people feel unfairly burdened by the costs of green energy transition they didn't cause.
- Labour's 'Great British Energy' aims to provide national ownership and benefits, aligning policy and rhetoric.
Net Zero's Political Origins
- Net zero is a Conservative policy, initially introduced during Theresa May's leadership.
- Tony Blair stresses the urgency of climate action and the need to convincingly win the argument for net zero.
Shift to Re-industrialization Messaging
- Reform UK shifts from anti-net zero to promoting re-industrialization, appealing to socially conservative, economically left voters.
- Labour must show clear commitment to net zero to retain progressive support against Reform's alternative.