Richard Tice faces backlash over heatwave and climate change comments

Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice has faced criticism from political opponents and medical experts after suggesting that the public should enjoy the warmth of heatwaves, noting that climate change could improve the quality of English sparkling wine. Tice questioned the effectiveness of net zero policies, stating, “Maybe the smarter thing to do is to adapt to it, (rather) than think arrogantly you can stop it.”

His comments follow a period of extreme heat in England and Wales. Government estimates indicate that approximately 2,877 people died due to high temperatures during heatwaves in May and June, with 42% of those deaths attributed to human-induced warming. The heatwaves also resulted in significant economic costs, estimated at £4bn, and increased risks of wildfires and drought.

Critics have labeled Tice’s remarks as “tone-deaf” and “nonsense.” The Labour Party described his comments as raising questions about his judgment, while the SNP accused him of being out of touch and warned that Reform UK’s policies could jeopardize renewable energy jobs in Scotland.