Ed Miliband has been relentlessly attacked for his net zero agenda, but what will happen now under the new Labour government? As energy secretary, Miliband drove the UK toward decarbonizing its power sector by 2030, earning praise from climate experts while drawing fire from rightwing media and fossil fuel interests. His department achieved notable progress despite broader government struggles with growth, NHS strikes, and school repairs. Yet calls for new North Sea drilling—at Jackdaw and Rosebank—threaten to undermine his mission.
Why Miliband Faces Such Vicious Attacks
Rightwing publications have labeled Miliband a “net-zero zealot” with a “messianic” devotion to climate action. Even as heatwaves and wildfires swept the UK, opponents demanded more fossil fuel extraction. The fossil fuel industry, along with the Conservatives, Reform UK, and even some Labour figures, lobbied Prime Minister Andy Burnham to approve the Jackdaw gasfield and Rosebank oilfield. Miliband previously called Rosebank “climate vandalism,” so new drilling would be a personal and political blow.
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Comparing Miliband’s Approach to Alternative Energy Policies
| Policy Aspect | Miliband’s Net Zero Plan | Alternative (Pro-Drilling) |
|---|---|---|
| Power sector target | Decarbonize by 2030 | Extend fossil fuel use |
| Renewable investment | Solar, wind expansion | Subsidies for oil & gas |
| Public support | High among climate voters | Backed by industry & rightwing media |
| Risk of climate damage | Reduces emissions | Worsens extreme weather |
Key Takeaways from the Miliband Net Zero Battle
- Miliband has been the most successful minister in Starmer’s cabinet, according to E3G’s Ed Matthew.
- Rightwing attacks aim to discredit his net zero mission and open doors for new drilling.
- Prime Minister Burnham faces pressure to approve Jackdaw and Rosebank, which would contradict Miliband’s climate stance.
- Three heatwaves and wildfires this summer underscore the urgency of decarbonization.
- Miliband’s future influence depends on Burnham’s decisions—and on public backlash against fossil fuel expansion.
What’s Next for UK Energy Policy?
If Burnham greenlights new North Sea drilling, Miliband may be isolated within the government. However, strong public support for climate action and Miliband’s track record could force a compromise. The net zero agenda remains popular among Labour voters, and any backtrack could trigger internal rebellion. Meanwhile, the fossil fuel lobby pushes hard, sensing an opportunity to reverse years of policy gains.
FAQ
Why is Ed Miliband attacked over net zero?
Miliband is a vocal proponent of rapid decarbonization, which threatens the profits of fossil fuel companies. Rightwing media and political opponents label him a “zealot” to discredit his climate policies and push for continued drilling.
Will Prime Minister Burnham approve new North Sea drilling?
Media reports suggest Burnham may announce new drilling shortly after entering No 10. This would directly conflict with Miliband’s position and could split the Labour party.
What is the Jackdaw and Rosebank controversy?
Jackdaw is a gasfield east of Aberdeen, and Rosebank is an oilfield west of Shetland. Environmentalists say developing them would significantly increase UK emissions. Miliband has called Rosebank “climate vandalism.”
Despite the attacks, Miliband remains optimistic. He has promised rooftop solar for every home and a clean power grid by 2030. The coming weeks will reveal whether the new prime minister backs that vision—or yields to the fossil fuel lobby. Either way, the battle over net zero is far from over.
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