Reform UK's Climate Stance Under Fire Amidst Heatwave Deaths
Party leader Richard Tice acknowledges climate change but advocates adaptation over prevention, drawing criticism amid record temperatures and water shortages.
Image: Eddie Pollard / AI
Carla Rooney
An estimated 2,700 people died from heat-related causes during May and June heatwaves in England and Wales.
Richard Tice conceded that climate change is real, yet claimed it has always happened and always will. He further asserted that adapting to climate change is a smarter approach than attempting to stop it.
Alasdair Johnstone, an expert, stated that reaching net zero emissions by 2050 is necessary to prevent climate change impacts from becoming more common and severe.
The UK experienced a record-breaking summer, with temperatures exceeding 35C multiple times. Wildfires have become more frequent globally, including the UK's most widespread firewave.
Farmers are facing one of the worst harvests ever, according to the National Farmers’ Union.
Reform UK announced plans in 2025 for nine new reservoirs, with the first potentially completed in 2036. This forms part of their strategy to tackle water supply challenges.
Tice also proposed building desalination plants to address these issues. Thames Water is preparing to restart the UK's only desalination plant, expected to be ready by winter.
Reform has campaigned to scrap the UK's commitment to net zero by 2050 and end green subsidies.
The party has received tens of millions of pounds in donations from individuals connected to the fossil fuel industry, including a £5m gift from Christopher Harborne.
Amy Cameron, Greenpeace UK’s programme director, criticised Tice's comments. She linked Reform's stance to funding from fossil fuel interests.
Reform should try telling nurses fainting on shifts, farmers losing their crops and people running from burning homes to enjoy the hot weather and see what reaction they’ll get.
She further asserted, "There’s only one way to stop this extreme weather: cutting emissions from fossil fuels."
James Sutton, Zero Hour Co-director, claimed that Richard Tice's comments are completely out of touch with the public.
Robert Jenrick also spoke at the Reform press conference, focusing on welfare reforms.