Extreme Heat: Resilience of NHS Infrastructure

Baroness O'Grady of Upper Holloway Excerpts

Tuesday 30th June 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

Clearly it is a different situation, in terms not of climate but of the estate. I know the noble Lord is aware of this, but it is worth pointing out that the social care sector is rather more fragmented and includes the private sector. However, for social care, advice is available about what measures to put in place, along with training.

[Baroness O’Grady of Upper Holloway (Lab)]

My Lords, many workers across many sectors are suffering unbearable temperatures that they are expected to work in, and that is increasing demand on the NHS and its services. Does the Minister agree with the principle that health and safety laws can drive adaptations in workplaces necessary for the health and safety of the workforce, as happened with the introduction of a minimum working temperature? Is it time that we had a maximum working temperature, as the TUC has called for?

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

I acknowledge the push my noble friend is making. She will understand that the decision she asked me to comment on is not one for my department, but I will certainly draw it to the attention of the appropriate ministerial colleague.