A group of church leaders have criticised Sir Paul Marshall, co-owner of GB News, over the television channel’s coverage of climate science and action. The hedge fund manager was as well challenged regarding statements deemed “misleading” by the group, which includes former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams and two current bishops.
Climate Debate and Investment Concerns
Marshall recently stated that the UK had been infected by “climate derangement syndrome” and that attempts to reduce planet-heating emissions were “impoverishing people.” The church leaders raised concerns about £1.8 billion of fossil fuel investments reportedly held in 2023 by the hedge fund Marshall manages, requesting transparency regarding any potential conflicts of interest.
Marshall responded by stating that “the Gospel entreats us to look after the vulnerable,” but argued that pursuing a “unilateral” net zero policy would be “a path of unilateral economic disarmament and self-harm.” He also maintained that the extent to which global heating is caused by human activity “is still subject to debate.”
However, the world’s climate scientists, in reports signed off by 192 national governments, have stated that approximately 100% of global heating since 1950 was caused by human emissions and activities.
The church leaders’ open letter referenced the historical campaign to end slavery, stating that “British Christians have often led the way in calling for change.” They expressed concern that Marshall’s statements – including assertions that decarbonisation is “leading the way in wrecking our industrial base” and “impoverishing our people” – were misleading, arguing that decarbonisation presents a “huge growth opportunity.”
Marshall, who identifies as a “committed Church of England Christian,” stated he supports stewardship of the planet but believes this must be balanced with “human flourishing.” He expressed opposition to the UK’s current “unilateral net zero” policy, arguing it undermines prosperity and impacts vulnerable populations.
More than 100 countries, accounting for approximately 82% of global carbon emissions, have adopted net zero policies, and dozens more are considering them. The UK’s net zero economy grew by 10% in 2024, according to the Confederation of British Industry.
Marshall, whose net worth was estimated at £850 million in 2025, said he invests in renewable technology but does not believe in “penalising” oil and gas, advocating for an “energy abundance” strategy.
GB News has lost £131 million since its launch in 2021, according to Press Gazette. A spokesperson for the channel defended its journalism as independent and compliant with broadcasting regulations, championing “open debate and diverse perspectives.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the criticism of Sir Paul Marshall?
A group of church leaders criticised Sir Paul Marshall over GB News’s attacks on climate science and action, and challenged his own statements on the issue.
What is Marshall’s position on net zero policies?
Marshall does not support the UK’s current “unilateral net zero” policy, believing it harms the country’s prosperity and negatively impacts vulnerable people.
What did the church leaders ask of Marshall?
The church leaders asked Marshall to be transparent about any personal financial interests he may have in fossil fuels, given his public statements on climate change.
As debates surrounding climate policy and media responsibility continue, what role should individuals with significant financial interests play in shaping public discourse?
