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Burnham Considers Disposable Barbecue Ban After Drought Wildfires

8/12/2026

24 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the government is considering a ban on disposable barbecues after a COBR meeting with DEFRA and Home Office ministers.
The ban is proposed as drought affects England and all of Wales while 966 wildfires have been fought this year.
Supermarkets have stopped selling single-use grills and councils can fine £100, while Labour MP Jon Pearce, Liberal Democrat MPs and National Fire Chiefs Council back restrictions.

History

Historical Context

England’s 5 p plastic-bag charge, introduced on 5 October 2015 under Chancellor Gordon Brown, cut single-use bag distribution by 97% within a year, prompting similar levies in Wales (2011), Northern Ireland (2013) and Scotland (2014). The charge’s success has inspired DEFRA, the Home Office and the National Fire Chiefs Council to propose a disposable-barbecue ban amid 966 wildfires.

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Story summary

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the government is considering a ban on disposable barbecues after a COBR meeting with DEFRA and Home Office ministers.
The ban is proposed as drought affects England and all of Wales while 966 wildfires have been fought this year.
Supermarkets have stopped selling single-use grills and councils can fine £100, while Labour MP Jon Pearce, Liberal Democrat MPs and National Fire Chiefs Council back restrictions.

1 / 2