Burnham criticized over climate decisions
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The gist
Andy Burnham faces criticism over climate adaptation as nurses faint in heat.
The row highlights UK's unpreparedness for climate crisis amid extreme weather.
Background
The UK is experiencing a summer of extreme heat, wildfires, and drought, prompting criticism that the government is not doing enough to adapt to climate change. Andy Burnham, a key political figure, is under pressure from Labour backbenches and environmental groups to acknowledge the urgency of climate adaptation. A recent FOI request revealed that only 20 of 6,600 staff at Defra are working on climate adaptation, underscoring the lack of preparedness.
How it unfolded
- Aug 8, 2026Record-breaking heat is reshaping Britain's climate risk map, according to an agency report.
- Aug 10, 2026Consultation on Jackdaw gas field closes; environmental groups urge Burnham to refuse new oil and gas permits.
- Aug 12, 2026Guardian reports that only 20 of 6,600 Defra staff work on climate adaptation; RCN warns nurses are fainting in extreme heat.
- Aug 12, 2026Burnham says he is focusing on immediate crises, while facing pressure to address 'bigger questions' of climate adaptation.
Who’s saying what
- Union
- RCN warns that nurses are collapsing in 'inhumane and impossible' conditions due to extreme heat, calling for more air conditioners.
- Environmentalists
- Groups like Greenpeace urge Burnham to refuse new oil and gas projects, citing 'a summer of extreme heat and devastating wildfires'.
- Official
- Burnham says he is dealing with immediate crises and that serious incidents are under control, while acknowledging the need to address bigger questions.
Still unverified
The claim that Burnham has not mentioned the climate crisis since taking office is based on a single source (Guy Shrubsole) and may be disputed.