The Guardian view on Britain's green future: where was the debate? | Editorial

The climate emergency should have been a more prominent theme during an underwhelming election campaignFor all the many televised encounters between party leaders, one huge subject has largely flown under the radar during this underwhelming election campaign. In 2019, at a time when the Brexit crisis had overwhelmed national politics, Channel 4 nevertheless devoted an entire pre-election debate to the climate emergency. Boris Johnson didn't turn up. But, sensing the mood of the times, as prime minister he was soon committing to a "green industrial revolution". Climate action was high-profile and it mattered.Contrast that with last week's final leaders' debate between Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer. None of the questions selected from the audience addressed the environment. Aside from one attempt by Mr Sunak to suggest that Labour's green plans will lead to higher taxes - feeding into the Conservative party's wider attack strategy - both leaders focused their energy and political capital elsewhere. It has been much the same throughout the campaign. Economists, industrial leaders and environmental campaigners are united in their desire for more proactive green government. But the politics has become difficult. Continue reading...