Overview

• The Times/YouGov/Public First research reports a sharp shift since 2021, with 25% now saying global warming risks are exaggerated and 16% saying it is not caused by human activity.
• Backers of a ban on new petrol and diesel cars have fallen to 30% from 51%, and only 16% say they would accept higher gas bills to encourage electrification.
• Confidence that successive governments will deliver net zero by 2050 has more than halved to 15%, down from 32% four years ago.
• Focus groups in Watford and the West Midlands show swing voters prioritising crime, the NHS and immigration over climate, with strong resistance to costly household measures.
• A separate poll reported by POLITICO finds net zero still viewed as beneficial overall (48% versus 16% negative), yet most expect personal costs and politicians are the least trusted messengers.