Burnham failing public over heat threats, says Green leader
Green Party leader Zack Polanski has criticized UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham for his handling of recent heatwaves and wildfires. Polanski argues that the government is failing to provide adequate public safety measures against extreme weather.
Why it matters
The debate highlights growing political tension in the UK regarding climate change adaptation and government accountability.
Image source, PA Media By Paul Seddon Political reporter Published 5 August 2026 Zack Polanski has accused Labour of a "dereliction of duty" in the face of this summer's heatwaves, as he urged Andy Burnham to take further action in response to recent wildfires and droughts.
In a speech, the Green Party leader said the threat to public health and food supplies posed the "biggest threat to this country since the Second World War".
Record temperatures in recent months showed the need for immediate measures, he said, such as publicly accessible "cool spaces" and financial support to help households heatproof their homes.
But Labour criticised the Greens' record on reservoirs and clean energy projects, accusing them of "repeatedly" opposing new developments.
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