Reform UK climate stance meets mixed reactions among party base

The short version

• At the Reform UK conference, deputy leader Richard Tice reiterated dismissive views on heatwaves as attendees expressed scepticism toward climate science.[The Guardian]
• Despite questioning climate predictions, several attendees simultaneously criticised the government for not doing enough to protect people from extreme heat.[The Guardian]
• Polling indicates a divergence between leadership and supporters, with most Reform voters backing local renewable energy and higher fossil fuel taxes.[The Guardian]
• Labour climate minister Katie White urged Reform not to make climate change a culture war, calling outright denial out of touch with the public.[The Guardian]

Key facts

• Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice has repeatedly encouraged the public to enjoy recent heatwaves and record drought.[The Guardian]
• Multiple delegates at the party conference voiced doubt over climate science while simultaneously criticising the government for failing to protect people from hot weather.[The Guardian]
• Survey data shows Reform voters are less likely to deny climate science than party leaders and broadly favour local renewable energy projects.[The Guardian]
• Polling from the previous year indicated that roughly 70% of Reform voters support higher taxes on fossil fuels.[The Guardian]
• Labour climate minister Katie White stated that climate denial is out of step with British voters and asked Reform not to make the topic a culture war.[The Guardian]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Reform continues to cast doubt on climate science. Do its supporters agree?The Guardian - World