Still the first green chancellor? Debrief on Rachel Reeves’ growth speech
Summary
In January 2025, as part of a set piece speech on the economy, Chancellor Rachel Reeves set out steps to boost growth.
It was briefed in advance that airport expansion would form a core part of that pitch and that the government’s commitment to its climate targets might even be in question.
In the end, whilst Reeves did announce in principle support for airport expansion, she also unequivocally defended net zero and the economic opportunities of the energy transition, alongside support for electric charging infrastructure and public transport.
On Monday 3 February, our expert panel discussed the events of the previous week and the unsteady waters of UK environmental politics.
Speakers
- Chair: Shaun Spiers, executive director, Green Alliance
- Areeba Hamid, executive director, Greenpeace UK
- Rachel Solomon-Williams, executive director, the Aldersgate Group
- Sam Alvis, associate director, IPPR
Speakers

Executive director, Green Alliance

Executive director, Greenpeace UK

Executive director, the Aldersgate Group

Associate director, IPPR