Vikki Slade MP takes major step in campaigning to ban disposable barbecues - delivers petition to Parliament

Mid Dorset & North Poole MP, Vikki Slade, has taken a major step forward in her campaign to ban disposable barbecues by presenting a petition to Parliament signed by more than one thousand local residents.

Delivering the petition in the House of Commons, Vikki highlighted the urgency of action to prevent further wildfire damage:

“2025 has been the worst year on record for UK wildfires, with Dorset seeing over 900 of them. Disposable barbecues have been the initial cause of many, so we are calling for a ban on their sale to protect our precious landscape, people and wildlife.”

Outside of the chamber, Vikki stressed that even as the country moves into the winter months, the need for reform remains urgent:

“As we go into winter, it’s crucial we don’t forget about this until it’s too late next summer. The seasonal nature of the problem cannot be an excuse for inaction — we need change now.”

This year, Vikki has raised the issue of disposable barbecues and the lack of local funding to tackle wildfires multiple times in Parliament. She has also written directly to the Secretary of State following the declaration of a major fire incident in Dorset earlier this year, urging immediate support and long-term reforms.

Vikki emphasised that the issue is driven by multiple, connected factors:

“Wildfire risks are rising every year due to the climate crisis. The Government must not make this worse by failing to give our brave firefighters the tools they need — and by refusing to ban disposable barbecues, which are the cause of so many fires.”

Most recently, Vikki attended the Holt Commons Association meeting where she heard local concerns around heath fires, and she visited Canford Heath with BCP Council countryside rangers to see their Peat Project first-hand and understand how it helps reduce fire risk, supports ecosystem restoration and contributes to tackling climate impacts.

Vikki Slade MP pledged to continue campaigning in Parliament to secure long-term support and funding for local fire services, while promoting wildfire prevention across Dorset.