His move follows news of the green sector’s angry reception to the opposition leader’s central speech on Tuesday, which failed to address the environment.

During the session in Manchester yesterday, Miliband said that the environment was “absolutely central” to his vision for the future and he criticised the government for their dwindling green credentials.

“George Osborne tells you you can either have a good environment or you can have a good economy. Absolutely wrong. You need both,” he said.

Friends of the Earth’s policy and campaigns director Craig Bennett said:”We’re delighted Ed Miliband has found his green voice – a One Nation approach must recognise that we only have one planet.

“Labour must now become the greenest Opposition ever and challenge the Chancellor’s reckless dash for gas.

“Ed Balls should wake up and realise that this is where Osborne is weak and full of hot air. He must take on the anti-green Chancellor and his fossil-fueled economic strategy that simply doesn’t add up.”

Conor McGlone

Action inspires action. Stay ahead of the curve with sustainability and energy newsletters from edie

Subscribe