Donald Trump has called on Sir Keir Starmer to reverse the ban on new North Sea oil and gas licences, claiming it would lower energy bills. Speaking at a joint press conference at Chequers, the US president said his 'drill, baby, drill' policy had reduced inflation and energy prices in America, and urged the UK to exploit its 'great asset' in the North Sea.
Trump described wind energy as an 'expensive joke' and argued that the North Sea contains 'phenomenal' oil reserves. Sir Keir responded by saying he is 'absolutely determined' to reduce energy costs, but stressed the importance of a 'pragmatic approach' that includes both fossil fuels and renewables. The Prime Minister's government has ruled out new oil and gas licences, focusing instead on renewables and nuclear power.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch backed Trump's call, stating that the UK must 'make the most of our natural resources' to ensure energy security. However, campaign groups criticised the proposal. Simon Francis of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition said the North Sea is 'running out of gas' and that renewables are the fastest route to lower bills. Tessa Khan of Uplift dismissed Trump's comments as 'pure fantasy', noting the basin is in terminal decline.
