COP31: How Ed Miliband answered Carbon Brief readers’ questions

UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband defended the country’s climate leadership in a COP31 interview, despite criticism over approval of the Jackdaw gas field and reports of a possible retreat from electric vehicle targets. He said the UK remains committed to clean power and emissions cuts, and framed climate action as a national security issue.

Miliband said the government would strive to meet its target of cutting emissions 68% below 1990 levels by 2030, while acknowledging a difficult starting position. He also backed reforming multilateral development banks to increase support for developing countries, highlighted methane action and supported the 35×35 electrification pledge. He argued that COP remains valuable for bringing countries together and said the UK’s 2027 G20 presidency would focus on climate resilience and development finance.