Andy Burnham has indicated he told Donald Trump during their first phone call that the UK "can't ignore" North Sea oil resources, leaving the door open for future drilling. The Prime Minister confirmed the conversation during a visit to Barrow in Cumbria on Thursday.
North Sea Policy Shift
Mr Burnham said he would take a "pragmatic approach" to the North Sea, adding: "There is a resource there. When people are struggling, we can't ignore that." Labour's 2024 manifesto stated the party would not issue new North Sea licences, but the Prime Minister appeared to signal a possible change.
His predecessor Sir Keir Starmer had maintained a strict stance, while Ed Miliband, who previously held the energy and net zero brief, has now become Foreign Secretary. The current Energy Secretary, Miatta Fahnbulleh, said oil and gas remain "part of the mix" but would not comment on further licences. Consultations on the Jackdaw gasfield and Rosebank oilfield are due to end on August 10 and August 17 respectively, after which the Offshore Petroleum Regulator for Environment and Decommissioning will make a recommendation.
Trump's Endorsement
Mr Trump publicly praised Mr Burnham's approach, saying: "He said he's going to open up North Sea oil. If he does that, you're going to be a wealthy country." The US president also criticised wind turbines, calling them a sign of a "failing country," and claimed the UK has "one of the most valuable oil finds anywhere in the world." He added that he could not persuade Sir Keir Starmer to use it.
The phone call marked a fresh start in transatlantic relations after tensions between the UK and US over the Iran war.
Immigration Comments
Mr Trump also urged Mr Burnham to tackle immigration, describing it as "killing your country." Mr Burnham acknowledged progress but said "more is needed" to reduce Channel crossings. He noted that removals are up and that the Home Secretary is applying "grip" to the issue.
