Multiple reports say former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair has warned incoming Labour leader Andy Burnham that the UK cannot “afford” Labour’s net zero climate targets. The articles state that Blair tells Burnham the government’s approach risks penalising British businesses through climate-related policies, framing the issue as a cost and economic competitiveness concern. The coverage also notes that Burnham is expected to become prime minister, with the transition described as occurring following Keir Starmer. One source additionally references claims about Ed Miliband in a future chancellorship role, saying he is “ready to approve” a North Sea gas field as part of job creation. However, the reports focus primarily on Blair’s argument that existing or planned net zero measures would impose burdens on businesses and that policy should be reconsidered in light of affordability. Overall, the outlets present Blair’s intervention as a public warning to Labour ahead of the next government’s climate and energy policy direction, while including contrasting mentions of gas and employment in the broader political context.