Badenoch vacations with climate skeptic donor before policy change

Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the Conservative Party, recently spent a week with her family at a location owned by a climate sceptic donor, Neil Record. The trip, valued at around £14,000, took place during the February half-term and included only a select group of Badenoch's colleagues from the shadow cabinet. The stay came just before Badenoch changed her stance on the UK's commitment to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050. She declared this goal "impossible," marking a significant policy shift since she became leader last autumn. Neil Record is the chair of Net Zero Watch, a group that argues against expensive measures to combat climate change. He has previously funded other climate sceptic organizations and often writes about his views in the media. It is not clear if he was present during the stay or if the meetings were held at his estate in Gloucestershire, which includes amenities like a swimming pool and gardens. Badenoch's spokesperson highlighted her long-standing concerns about net zero policies and their impact on energy costs for families in the UK. She stated that the residential event included work meetings, with her family accompanying her during the school break. The disclosure of this trip has prompted discussions about politicians accepting free hospitality, amid growing frustration from some Conservative MPs about the tight circle Badenoch seems to maintain. Recently, other politicians have also faced scrutiny for accepting complimentary tickets and events.