"Chris Skidmore's Departure Fuels Conservative Turmoil Amid Climate and Political Strife"

UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has expressed profound disagreement with former Conservative minister Chris Skidmore's decision to resign over the government's energy plans, which include annual oil and gas licensing rounds. Skidmore, who had previously signed the UK's 2050 net zero commitment into law, believes the bill contradicts the UK's climate commitments. Hunt argues that domestic fossil fuel production is cleaner than imports and is necessary for energy security, especially in light of recent attacks on international shipping by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. The government is also focused on addressing the challenges of high mortgage rates and providing financial support to families amidst economic difficulties.