Emergency government meeting held over high temperature amid ‘strain on public finances’
The government will hold an emergency meeting to discuss the country’s response to this summer’s high temperatures and drought amid fears that it will add a “strain” on the public finances. Prime Minister Andy Burnham will chair the ‘Cobra’ meeting of ministers overseeing health, water, housing and local government, as well as officials from agencies [...]
Prime Minister Andy Burnham will chair an emergency Cobra meeting of ministers to discuss the country's response to this summer's high temperatures and drought. Temperatures could reach 38C, impacting infrastructure, transport, and health services. Over two-thirds of the country, including London, is in a drought, causing water shortages.
The government aims to protect water supplies, support farming communities, and safeguard the environment. Recent weather challenges have strained public finances, with analysts estimating the cost of heatwaves at £3bn to £4bn. The Bank of England warns that heatwaves could raise inflation, while other economists highlight the economic impact on productivity and retail sales.
Farmers face lower productivity and increased feed costs due to drought conditions, which may lead to poorer harvests on record. The government plans a 25-year strategy to increase food security and withstand climate change impacts.
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