Hard-right figures take aim at Ed Miliband and UK net zero policies at ‘anti-woke Davos’

Kemi Badenoch, the UK Business and Trade Secretary, criticized Britain's net zero policies and Energy Secretary Ed Miliband at the Alliance for Responsible Citizenship (ARC) conference in London this week. Badenoch, who addressed a gathering that included US anti-abortion activists and European far-right politicians, labeled Miliband a "villain" during her remarks. The conference, described by some as an "anti-woke Davos," featured prominent figures from conservative and right-wing populist movements, as well as significant financial backing from wealthy US individuals associated with Donald Trump. A former energy secretary under the Trump administration also attended, characterizing the UK's current energy policies as a "tragic mistake." The event focused on challenging progressive policies, particularly those related to climate change and environmental regulations, with critics arguing these measures hinder economic growth and individual liberty. The discussions highlighted a growing international coalition of conservative and populist leaders seeking to counter what they perceive as liberal or "woke" agendas in Western governance.