What is bunny hugging? - Boris Johnson reference mocked by leading climate activist Greta Thunberg

What is bunny-hugging?

The terms 'bunny-hugging' or 'bunny-hugger' are both regarded as derogatory phrases used to undermine environmental, climate change and animals rights activists.

However, depending on which part of Canada you are in a 'bunny-hug' could mean a hoodie with a large pocket on the front of the garment which is popular with young people.

The 'bunny-hug' was also the name given to a dance in the USA that became popular in the 1940s.

What did Boris Johnson actually say?

“It's vital for all of us to show that this is not all about some expensive politically correct, green act of bunny-hugging, or however you want to put it... This is about growth and jobs, and I think the [US] president was absolutely right to stress that.

“I want to leave you with the thought that we can do better from this pandemic, by building back greener.

“And don't forget that the UK has been able to cut our own CO2 emissions by about 42 per cent on 1990 levels, and we've seen our economy grow by 73 per cent. You can do both at once. ‘Cake: have, eat’ is my message to you.”

Where does Greta Thunberg fit in?

Eighteen year-old Swedish environmental activist, Greta Thunberg, has been at the fore of the battle over climate change for several years

Miss Thunberg has clashed with world leaders in the past - none more so than former U.S. President, Donald Trump, who said of the teenager: "Greta must work on her anger management problem, then go to a good old fashioned movie with a friend! Chill Greta, Chill!”

Within a few hours of Prime Minister Johnson's speech, Greta Thunberg changed her profile description on Twitter to 'bunny-hugger'.

"Omg the girl ⁦@GretaThunberg⁩ is a legend," tweeted the Daily Mirror's Political Editor, Pippa Crerar.

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