Former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair has issued a sharp critique of Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer’s policy approach, urging the party to abandon its net-zero carbon emissions targets. In an extensive 5,700-word essay released recently, Blair contended that Labour is “playing with fire” over the United Kingdom’s future and lacks a “coherent plan” to address key economic and social challenges.

Blair specifically called on Starmer to discard the carbon reduction goals championed by Energy Secretary Ed Miliband. He also criticised the continuation of the pensions triple lock and the increasing number of individuals claiming incapacity benefits, arguing that both measures hamper economic growth. In his appeal to Labour MPs, Blair encouraged them to clearly articulate their positions before endorsing any leadership changes within the party.

In the essay, Blair expressed support for Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to return to Parliament but refrained from declaring if he preferred Burnham over former Health Secretary Wes Streeting for future leadership roles. He warned against reducing the party’s leadership decisions to a “personality contest,” stressing the importance of establishing a clear policy direction. According to Blair, Starmer’s leadership has been hindered by a failure to clearly define where he stands since taking over from Jeremy Corbyn.

Responding to Blair’s remarks, Burnham criticised the former prime minister as being disconnected from current realities. He pointed out that Blair’s essay did not address issues of inequality or acknowledge its significance. Burnham highlighted the growing cost-of-living pressures faced by many, saying, “people are unable to live and things that were taken for granted are no longer affordable.” He challenged the Blair-era approach that viewed market solutions as universally effective, calling that outlook part of the problem.

Treasury minister Dan Tomlinson also countered Blair’s assessment, asserting that “things have moved on” since Blair left office and implying that the party’s current challenges require updated analysis and responses.

The debate reflects ongoing tensions within Labour as it seeks to define its future policy priorities and leadership direction ahead of the next general election.