How GB News and Talk TV turned up climate denial as UK heatwaves killed thousands

Record-breaking summer heatwaves that killed thousands in the UK prompted hosts on GB News and TalkTV to intensify climate denial, dismissing warnings as "hysterical hysteria" and "scaremongering" despite mounting evidence. The May and June heatwaves caused 2,877 confirmed deaths in England and Wales, according to the UK Health Security Agency, yet presenters questioned the figures and attacked net zero policies. Some guests suggested victims were "perhaps on the point of dying anyway," while others blamed the sun or claimed carbon dioxide levels were declining. The channels repeatedly spread misinformation, including false claims that air conditioning is illegal in new homes and that North Sea drilling would cut bills. Experts note net zero is cheaper than inaction, and 2025 data showed more heat-related deaths than cold-related ones.