Donald Trump has urged Prime Minister Andy Burnham to expand North Sea oil drilling, claiming the move could transform Britain's economy and warning the new Labour leader that the country faces serious energy challenges. The US President said he had repeatedly tried to persuade British leaders to expand oil production and claimed Burnham had promised to "open up North Sea oil".
"If he does that, you're going to be a wealthy country if he does it reasonably," Trump told GB News. The President argued that Britain's energy policy is holding the country back, adding: "He's got energy problems. He's got windmills all over the place. And any time you see windmills, you see a failing country."
Trump's push for North Sea oil
Trump has long been a vocal supporter of increased North Sea drilling and frequently clashed with former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer over the issue. He said he had struggled to convince Starmer to change course.
"I could not get Starmer to use it. It was incredible," Trump told GB News. "Every oil company that I meet. And these are all big giants. Every person that I know in the oil business said: 'Please, could you open up the North Sea? Could you get them to open it?' They're dying to do it."
Earlier this month, Trump praised reports that Burnham could be prepared to back further North Sea drilling, claiming the decision would make Britain "a really rich country" similar to Norway. "You have one of the most valuable oil finds anywhere in the world," Trump said. "And if the United Kingdom would use it, they'd be a wealthy country again."
Burnham's response and Labour's position
The comments come as the new Prime Minister faces growing pressure over the future of North Sea oil and gas production. Labour's 2024 election manifesto pledged not to issue new licences for oil and gas exploration in the North Sea. However, previously approved projects, including the Jackdaw and Rosebank fields, remain under consideration after receiving licences under the previous Conservative government. Reports have also suggested the Government is considering expanding the use of "tiebacks", allowing new wells to connect to existing offshore infrastructure.
Burnham has said he intends to manage relations with Trump by "meeting him where he's at", while members of his Cabinet have previously expressed strong support for achieving the UK's net zero targets and reducing reliance on new fossil fuel developments.
