Andy Burnham expected to make major Keir Starmer U-turn

Andy Burnham expected to make major Keir Starmer U-turn Andy Burnham could be about to make to major change to Keir Starmer's electric car plan as officials look at EV sales targets. Share Article Share Article Facebook X LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Copy Link Link copied Add us as preferred source Comments By Luke Chillingsworth , Cars Reporter 09:38, Tue, Oct 20, 2026 Updated: 11:09, Tue, Oct 20, 2026 Andy Burnham could U-turn on Keir Starmer's EV plan (Image: Getty) Andy Burnham could be set to green-light a major U-turn over Keir Starmer’s Labour plan, according to reports. The Financial Times claims that Andy Burnham’s Government is considering reducing the UK’s electric car sales targets with updates to Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate rules. Mr Burnham’s Government is believed to have sounded out manufacturers on whether a 60% EV sales target could be supported. Under the current policy, manufacturers must ensure that as many as 80% of new cars sold are electric by 2030. This is a U-turn in itself, but the move could go against Sir Keir Starmer ’s previous plan, which would have cut targets by even more. Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT Peter Kyle, business secretary under Mr Starmer had plans to cut EV sales targets to 50% to back manufacturers. However, Mr Starmer left office before the plans could be realised. The Department for Transport (DfT) is currently consulting on the future of the ZEV Mandate , with the Government seeking views on the current trajectory and yearly headline targets. The consultation is set to close on October 23, with stakeholders asked to pick whether the 80% sales target should be maintained or updated. Among the ideas on the table is a 70%, 60% and 50% EV sales target. However, under all of the plans companies will need to ensure all vehicles sold are fully electric by 2035. Get the latest politics news - straight from our team in Westminster and more I would like to receive emails from the Daily Express featuring our latest products, services, offers, and promotions from across the Reach Plc family . Subscribe Invalid email You agree you are 18 or over. We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. You can unsubscribe at any time. More Info . Meanwhile, petrol and diesel cars will still be banned by 2030, with the difference likely to be made up by plug-in models. Mr Burnham’s new target could still put him at odds with some car manufacturers, with concern that the targets could still be too high. Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT I’m a car expert - over 70s should do one thing now to beat this Andy Burnham rule change UK drivers told to use little-known 'night mode' to reduce headlight glare Could ZEV Mandate targets be about to change? (Image: Getty) Last week, Renault boss François Provost told the UK that ZEV mandate rules were “not realistic” and put “too much pressure on the system”. Ford UK boss Lisa Brankin was among those demanding an "urgent review" into the UK’s ZEV mandate rules. Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT Earlier this summer, Lisa said: “Ford believes in a zero-emissions future. That isn’t in question. What is in question is whether the current policy path reflects how people actually buy and use vehicles today.” The DfT told the Express: "It has never been easier or cheaper to own an EV – with sales up by 36% in September thanks to our £7.5 billion investment in the market, and nearly 2 million EV drivers saving up to £1,750 a year in running costs. “We recognise manufacturers are facing challenges, and are reviewing the Mandate to ensure it continues to deliver for British consumers and industry. Our consultation is ongoing and no decisions have been made.” The Express has contacted the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) for comment. Andy Burnham Electric cars Share Article Share Article Facebook X LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Copy Link Link copied Add us as preferred source Comments