Ed Miliband back in the news as UK energy, net-zero politics heat up: ex-Labour leader, MP for Doncaster North, since 2005, serving as Energy Secretary since July 2024.
On March 11-12, 2026, the International Energy Agency (IEA) coordinated the largest-ever release of 400 million barrels of emergency oil reserves to counter supply shocks caused by Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating US-Israel-Iran conflict. Despite this, oil prices surged above $100 a barrel as Iran vowed to keep the strait closed, disrupting about 20% of global oil shipments and threatening global economic growth.
Ofgem has approved Tesla Energy Ventures to supply electricity in the UK, marking a significant entry amid rising energy costs and market competition. The move introduces a new competitor, leveraging Tesla's solar and battery expertise, but faces political criticism and market challenges. Tesla's vehicle sales have declined amid political backlash and competition.
As of March 22, 2026, Iran maintains effective control over the Strait of Hormuz, blocking oil shipments following US-Israeli strikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader. President Trump has urged allies including the UK, China, and France to send warships to secure the vital waterway, but key NATO members remain reluctant, emphasizing diplomacy. The blockade has pushed oil prices above $100 per barrel, intensifying global economic pressures.
Britain is exploring the deployment of minehunting drones to secure the Strait of Hormuz amid Iran's blockade. The US, UK, and allies are discussing options to reopen the vital shipping lane, which is crucial for global oil supplies. Iran warns against involvement, threatening retaliation.
As of March 24, 2026, the US and Israel continue intense airstrikes against Iran, targeting military and nuclear sites. Iran rejects ceasefire talks, demanding a permanent end with guarantees. The Strait of Hormuz remains blocked, disrupting global oil supplies. President Trump signals readiness to act alone, while regional tensions and evacuations escalate.
Angela Rayner has publicly criticised Keir Starmer's leadership, warning Labour is 'running out of time' and calling for urgent change. She attacked government immigration reforms and signalled her leadership ambitions amid upcoming local elections and party turmoil.
UK government officials discuss potential energy support measures as global tensions escalate over Iran and the Middle East conflict. The UK faces economic risks from rising oil prices and geopolitical instability, with officials planning to bolster energy security and financial resilience amid ongoing conflicts and US-Iran tensions.
Energy bills in Great Britain are forecast to increase significantly from July, with Cornwall Insight predicting a rise to nearly £1,929 annually due to soaring wholesale prices driven by Middle East conflicts. The government is considering targeted support as the current price cap remains until June.
Prime Minister Starmer warns that the Middle East conflict will affect the UK economy and household costs. The government is implementing support measures, including a crisis fund and energy bill caps, as it monitors escalating global tensions and their economic fallout.
As of April 2026, the UK government is managing the economic and diplomatic fallout from the US-Israel war on Iran, which has disrupted global oil supplies via the Strait of Hormuz. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer faces strained relations with US President Donald Trump over UK non-involvement in offensive strikes. The government is implementing targeted cost-of-living support, including a £1 billion Crisis and Resilience Fund and energy price cap reductions, while urging de-escalation and closer ties with Europe.
Companies warn of rising costs and potential shortages due to the Middle East conflict. McBride and Princes report increased expenses, while UK supermarkets prepare for possible price hikes and supply disruptions, with impacts expected to intensify in the coming months.
The UK has announced the start of work on three small modular reactors with Rolls-Royce, aiming for operation by the mid-2030s. Meanwhile, record solar and wind generation is boosting renewable capacity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels amid global energy market volatility driven by geopolitical tensions.
Oil prices have risen sharply due to Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz, pushing up UK fuel costs. Calls grow for the government to extend or cut fuel duty before planned increases in September, with opposition parties proposing relief measures amid rising petrol and diesel prices.
The UK is expected to have sufficient gas supplies this summer despite disruptions caused by the Middle East conflict. Domestic production, imports from Norway, and LNG are expected to meet demand, with prices rising 50%. Ongoing debates focus on domestic drilling and energy security strategies.
Labour MPs have criticised the UK government's shift towards renewable energy, calling for increased North Sea oil and gas exploration. Meanwhile, US President Trump has urged Britain to open North Sea oil fields, arguing it will boost energy security amid tensions in the Middle East. The debate highlights tensions between energy independence and climate commitments.
The UK government has announced plans to delink electricity prices from gas, expand renewables, and support energy workers. These measures aim to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, stabilize bills, and boost clean energy deployment in response to recent global energy market disruptions.
The UK has summoned Iran’s ambassador after the Iranian embassy in London posted messages urging Iranian citizens to volunteer for a “self-sacrifice” campaign. The Foreign Office has condemned the posts as unacceptable and inflammatory and has demanded that the embassy cease any communications that could be seen as encouraging violence. The move follows related remarks and social-media activity from Tehran’s diplomatic mission amid the broader UK-Iran tensions tied to the war in the region. Readers should note ongoing government briefings on security and supply-chain implications as ministers monitor potential threats.
Gilt yields have surged on leadership speculation and fiscal uncertainty as Keir Starmer contemplates his position amid mounting calls for him to go. Markets are pricing higher long-term borrowing costs, with 30-year yields near multi-decade highs and the pound softening.
Labour MPs have signalled potential leadership challenges to Sir Keir Starmer following dismal local election results. Streeting has resigned, with backers and talks of a by-election for Burnham; Angela Rayner has been cleared in a tax inquiry. The path to a contest remains uncertain as the party navigates internal support and NEC processes.
Labour is facing mounting pressure as discussions swirl about replacing Keir Starmer with Andy Burnham. By-elections loom, while internal manoeuvring and leadership questions dominate coverage across outlets, with varied takes on Labour’s future direction.
The Commons has rejected a Conservative amendment calling for licences to explore Rosebank and Jackdaw. Labour and Conservative MPs clash over energy policy as the government pursues an Energy Independence Bill, while Labour argues for continued fossil fuel use alongside renewables.
Andy Burnham has sought advice from Sue Gray on how to manage a potential transition into Downing Street if he returns to Westminster. The Makerfield by-election is seen as pivotal for Labour and could influence leadership dynamics within the party amid ongoing internal jockeying.
EU enlargement talks are shifting as the bloc eyeing safeguards on new members to avoid gridlock. Montenegro and other candidates are discussed for temporary veto rights limits, while Ukraine seeks full membership. A July summit is planned to advance talks and outline new accession terms.
Ofgem has confirmed the energy price cap will increase by 13% from July, pushing typical annual bills to £1,862. The shift is driven by higher wholesale gas prices amid the Middle East conflict. About 40% of accounts are on fixed tariffs and are unaffected. Households are advised to consider fixed deals and smart-meter off-peak pricing.
A series of policy changes and local actions across the US and Hawaii are threatening tax credits, farm and rooftop solar projects, and small-business solar adoption. While some communities push for faster rooftop and street-level solar deployments, lawmakers are revisiting credits and funding rules, risking delays for ongoing installations and new deployments.
Britain faces renewed calls to intervene in gas and electricity markets as a veteran critic urges faster North Sea drilling. Papers argue that without intervention, gas prices and wholesale energy costs could spike again, even as climate goals remain unchanged. Officials emphasise net-zero continuity, while industry voices warn of price shocks and dependence on volatile markets.
The government has set an 87% emissions reduction target for 2038-42, aligning with the Climate Change Committee. It will promote heat pumps, electric cars and green energy while offering grants to households; delivery details will follow parliamentary approval. Critics warn of costs and impact on rural sectors.