# UK Prime Minister to attend Cop31 summit amid domestic policy tensions

> The British prime minister is set to join world leaders at the Cop31 summit in Turkey while facing domestic scrutiny over climate and cost-of-living priorities.

- Published: 2026-11-09T16:12:19.000Z
- Category: politics
- Source: [Guardian Politics (UK)](https://www.theguardian.com/politics/audio/2026/nov/09/cop31-will-andy-burnham-choose-climate-or-cost-of-living-podcast)
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British Prime Minister Andy Burnham is scheduled to join international leaders in Turkey this week for the Cop31 climate summit. His attendance comes as his administration faces criticism for appearing to prioritize the cost of living over climate change initiatives.

### Key numbers

- **80%** — original electric vehicle target
- **60%** — proposed electric vehicle target

**Why it matters:** The administration's decision to lower electric vehicle targets and its stance on the Rosebank oilfield project highlight a conflict between economic policy and climate commitments. These choices directly impact the automotive industry and national environmental strategy.

## Policy shifts and environmental concerns

The government is reportedly planning to lower its electric vehicle targets from 80% to 60%, a move expected to be welcomed by car manufacturers. Additionally, the administration faces ongoing tension regarding the potential approval of the Rosebank oilfield project.

**Key points**

- Prime Minister Andy Burnham is attending the Cop31 summit in Turkey this week.
- The government intends to reduce electric vehicle targets from 80% to 60%.
- The Rosebank oilfield project remains a point of contention regarding its potential approval.
- Critics suggest the government is favoring cost-of-living concerns over climate action.