Starmer urged to convene energy summit in response to Iran conflict

Polly Billington, a Labour MP and former adviser to Gordon Brown, has called for Keir Starmer to organise a global energy summit similar to the one held during the 2008 financial crisis. Billington warns that the UK must adopt a "war footing" to mitigate the economic impact of the ongoing conflict between the US and Israel against Iran.

With rising tensions in the Middle East, Billington emphasises the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to reduce the UK's reliance on fossil fuels. She believes that without decisive action, the nation faces significant economic challenges that could adversely affect the British public.

The call for an energy summit comes amid growing concerns about the cost of living crisis exacerbated by international conflicts. Billington's remarks highlight the necessity for a coordinated response to protect citizens from the potential fallout of these geopolitical tensions.

As the situation develops, the Labour Party is under pressure to propose solutions that address both energy security and the economic wellbeing of the UK population.

Source: www.theguardian.com – https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/apr/02/keir-starmer-energy-summit-2008-financial-crisis-iran-war