Kemi Badenoch has been dealt yet another blow after a former senior Cabinet minister split over a key policy as her party continues to falter in the polls.
Former home secretary Sir James Cleverly has said the Tories should not turn their back on conserving the environment in an attack on Reform and Labour, as the Conservatives fall further and further behind.
Cleverly, the MP for Braintree, is set to appear at the pro-green Conservative Environment Network (CEN) to argue the party should not turn its back on environmental and climate policy.
He is set to say: "The idea that we must choose between a strong economy and protecting our environment is outdated. The future I believe in is one where these two aims go hand in hand, driving innovation and opportunity."
Kemi has been dealt with a blow
PA/YouGov
His remarks will come in sharp contrast with Badenoch's claims that reaching net zero within 50 years was "impossible."
Speaking back in March, Badenoch said: "I don’t say that with pleasure. Or because I have some ideological desire to dismantle it, in fact, we must do what we can to improve our natural world.
"I say it because anyone who has done any serious analysis knows it can’t be achieved without a serious drop in our living standards or by bankrupting us."
It comes as Badenoch's party is faltering in support, falling behind Labour and Reform.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Reform UK leader Nigel FaragePAA YouGov poll put the Tories in third place on 18 per cent, with Reform on top on 28 per cent with Labour on 22 per cent.
The Conservatives are just one point clear of the Liberal Democrats on 17 per cent with the Green Party dropping on nine per cent.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer accused Badenoch of parroting Kremlin lines in a tense PMQs clash.
Starmer quoted Badenoch's comments to Sky News over the weekend where she said: "Israel is fighting a proxy war on behalf of the United Kingdom, just like Ukraine is on behalf of western Europe against Russia."
Starmer and Badenoch clashed at PMQs
PA
The Prime MInister said: "There's only one leader who's been praised this week by the Russian embassy.
"And if she carries on echoing Kremlin talking points like this, Reform are going to be sending her an application form for membership."
Starmer finished his response saying: "I believe in standing by Ukraine."
More From GB News
Most Read
