MPs call for wildfire reforms after record UK incidents

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 21 Oct, 07:02 · Archive

MPs are calling for disposable barbecue restrictions and new firefighting aircraft after two record-breaking years of wildfires across the UK.

MPs are calling for disposable barbecue restrictions, new firefighting aircraft and Australian-style public awareness campaigns after two consecutive record-breaking wildfire years across the UK. The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee report comes just over a year after the Fylingdales Moor and Langdale Forest wildfire in North Yorkshire, which scorched around 20 square kilometres and became the biggest blaze recorded in the North York Moors National Park.

Fire and rescue services in England and Wales tackled more than 1,300 wildfires in 2026, already beating the previous year's record. Major incidents have hit the UK, including military deployments in South Wales, 19 homes destroyed in Stourbridge and extensive damage to parkland in Scotland, Staffordshire and Suffolk.

Alistair Carmichael MP, chair of the EFRA Committee, said: 'Two consecutive, record-breaking years of wildfires should be ringing alarm bells in Westminster.' The report warns that the UK is poorly prepared for wildfires and needs urgent action to protect communities and landscapes. It calls for a national wildfire strategy, temporary disposable barbecue bans during high-risk periods, wildfire warnings in forecasts and apps, investment in specialist equipment for fire and rescue services, and adequate water supply from water companies.

How it is being reported

• MPs urge wildfire reforms after record incidents - including North York Moors blazeMPs are calling for disposable barbecue restrictions, new firefighting aircraft and Australian-style public awareness campaigns after two record-breaking wildfire years across the UK.Darlington & Stockton Times · 21 Oct, 06:00
• MPs urge wildfire reforms after record incidents - including North York Moors blazeMPs are calling for disposable barbecue restrictions, new firefighting aircraft and Australian-style public awareness campaigns after two record-breaking wildfire years across the UK.The Northern Echo · 21 Oct, 06:00

In this story: Alistair Carmichael · Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee · North York Moors National Park · North Yorkshire · South Wales · Stourbridge · Scotland · Staffordshire

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