Climate action must work for ‘people on all incomes,’ Burnham tells COP31
U.K. Prime Minister Andy Burnham addressed cost-of-living concerns during his speech at the COP31 climate summit, emphasizing that climate policies must work for people on all incomes.
The British leader arrived at the global climate conference facing delicate political calculations, navigating the risks of implementing either insufficient or excessive environmental measures while addressing domestic economic concerns.
Burnham's speech highlighted the importance of ensuring climate policies don't disproportionately burden lower-income households, a critical issue as the U.K. continues to grapple with rising living costs.
Political balancing act
Climate action must work for people on all incomes
The U.K. government is simultaneously working to secure additional gas pipeline capacity from Europe amid supply fears that could lead to emergency shortages this winter under extreme conditions.