Ed Miliband, Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary, has declined to share his personal position on Heathrow airport expansion, citing collective Cabinet responsibility. While Labour under Chancellor Rachel Reeves now supports a third runway, Miliband previously opposed it as Labour leader in 2010 due to environmental concerns.
Speaking to media outlets, Miliband emphasized that any expansion must meet strict carbon budgets and environmental standards, with a final decision still years away. “I do support what the government is doing, which is that we’ve asked Heathrow to come forward with their plans,” he told Sky News, while noting these must fit within carbon budgets.
Miliband has taken a similar stance on the Rosebank oil field project, which he previously opposed, stating he now has “different responsibilities” as a minister than in opposition. Neither issue warrants resignation, he maintained, focusing instead on his clean energy agenda.
On energy policy, Miliband warned of rising bills without a transition to clean energy, and discussed new plans requiring rental properties to meet higher energy efficiency standards (EPC rating of C or above), acknowledging potential cost implications for landlords and tenants but defending it as “fair” and necessary.
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