Church Leaders Confront GB News Owner Over Climate Stance and Investments
A coalition of over 100 church leaders, featuring the former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams and two current bishops, has publicly criticised Sir Paul Marshall, co-owner of GB News and a self-described "committed" Christian. The group has taken issue with the television channel's persistent attacks on climate science and action, as well as Marshall's personal statements and financial interests.
Allegations of Misleading Statements and Fossil Fuel Holdings
In an open letter, the Christian leaders highlighted Marshall's recent comments, where he claimed the UK suffers from "climate derangement syndrome" and argued that efforts to reduce emissions are "impoverishing people." They labelled these assertions as "misleading," countering that decarbonisation presents a significant growth opportunity, potentially saving trillions of dollars while enhancing health, wellbeing, and national security.
The leaders also raised concerns about approximately £1.8 billion in fossil fuel investments reportedly held by Marshall's hedge fund in 2023. They called for transparency regarding any personal conflicts of interest, urging Marshall to disclose these before making public statements on the climate crisis.
Marshall's Defence and Policy Stance
In response, Marshall acknowledged a commitment to planetary stewardship but maintained that the extent of human-caused global heating remains debatable. He criticised the UK's net zero policy as "unilateral economic disarmament and self-harm," arguing it undermines prosperity and disproportionately affects vulnerable groups like the elderly and poor.
Marshall emphasised his investments in renewable technology through his hedge fund, Marshall Wace, yet advocated for an "energy abundance" strategy that includes oil and gas, opposing penalties on fossil fuels. He stated he is not involved in GB News's editorial decisions, noting the channel's £131 million losses since its 2021 launch.
Broader Context and Counterarguments
The Christian leaders cited research indicating GB News broadcast 953 attacks on climate science and action around the 2024 general election. Clare Fussell of Operation Noah, a signatory, stressed the urgency of transitioning from fossil fuels, especially amid global conflicts, and called for fair reporting standards.
Contrary to Marshall's views, scientific consensus, backed by 192 governments, attributes nearly all global heating since 1950 to human activities. Over 100 countries with net zero policies account for about 82% of global emissions, and the UK's net zero economy grew by 10% in 2024. Fossil fuels received trillions in subsidies in 2022, while renewable energy costs have become increasingly competitive.
A GB News spokesperson defended the channel's journalism, emphasising its compliance with Ofcom regulations and commitment to open debate, dismissing the criticism as an "affront" that denied a right to reply.
