Ahead of becoming prime minister, Labour leader Andy Burnham is preparing to announce a new approach to North Sea oil and gas. Multiple reports say the policy package is expected to include plans to restart or expand drilling, with some outlets describing it as a fast-track for new North Sea development. Other coverage points to internal and political pressure around whether Burnham will reverse elements of earlier Labour policy, including a ban on new oil and gas approvals.
At the same time, the reports indicate Burnham is also likely to draw distinctions within the broader strategy. The Financial Times says he is expected to maintain a ban on North Sea exploration licences, suggesting that any move to accelerate drilling may not extend to issuing new exploration licences. Separately, the Guardian and BBC describe a wider political dilemma, including the risk of backlash from within Labour if the government departs from manifesto positions.
In parallel, the Telegraph reports that Donald Trump has praised Burnham’s plans to move quickly on North Sea oil.
