A Freedom of Information request revealed that Dorset Police investigated 106 heath fires since 2021, identifying only four male suspects. Most fires were attributed to human action, prompting MP Vikki Slade to criticize the leniency towards environmental negligence, stating heathlands are “rarer than tropical rainforest.” The investigation numbers increased from 14 in 2021 to 31 in 2025, yet over 70% ended without a suspect identified. Slade called for better funding for fire services facing a £1.5 million deficit and advocated for national bans on disposable barbecues in high-risk areas to enhance fire prevention efforts.
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