Andy Burnham considers introducing ban after 'significant problem'

It comes as extreme heat continues to grip parts of the UK18:30, 12 Aug 2026Andy Burnham has said he will consider imposing a ban on disposable barbecues amid the risk of further wildfires as extreme heat continues to grip parts of the UK. The Prime Minister will chair an emergency Cobra committee later on Wednesday (August 12) in response to a prolonged spell of exceptionally hot and dry weather.‌Speaking to reporters, he said people should not be using single-use grills “at this time” amid a “significant problem” of wildfires in the south, where a blaze hit protected heathland in the New Forest, Hampshire.‌Nearly three quarters of England and the whole of Wales are in drought, heaping pressure on water resources for households, agriculture and the environment.‌And temperatures are set to