The decision to allow Novatek to attend the flagship conference was described as “disappointing” and “disturbing” by campaigners.

Badenoch’s leadership campaign was part-funded by a board member at one of the world’s largest fossil fuel companies.

The Conservative leader, who attacked “radical green absolutism” in a Washington DC speech, recently met with a host of influential anti-climate figures.

Campaigners raise concerns over ‘alarming’ potential conflicts in the powerful political grouping.