GB News was interrupted for a breaking news alert as US President Donald Trump warned that the UK will become a “bankrupt” country if it does not continue drilling for oil in the North Sea. The development was seen as a humiliating blow to Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
On-air clash over Trump's warning
During the broadcast, a breaking tagline read: “Trump: UK will be bankrupt country” as political commentator Nigel Nelson clashed with presenter Martin Daubney over the implications.
Daubney opened the discussion by noting that British Petroleum had threatened to leave the North Sea entirely, citing heavy taxation and legislation. He said: “Everything is pinning on Andy Burnham’s position – will he, won’t he drill?”
Nelson: Trump misunderstood Burnham
Nelson argued that Trump “misunderstood” Burnham, adding: “Andy Burnham was talking to him about whether or not we do the Rosebank and Jackdaw fields, which already have licences.” He pointed out that Burnham has said there will be no new licences, partly because “90% of British oil fields have already been bled dry.”
Daubney interjected: “Not current taxation and legislation? Change that!” Nelson responded: “When it comes to the taxation, Shell and BP are making billions. It’s not as if they haven’t got any money!”
Towler: Trump using carrots, not sticks
Political strategist Gawain Towler offered a different view, saying: “I don’t think Trump was having a go at Burnham there – I think he’s using sugar rather than stick.” Towler suggested Trump was trying to convince Burnham “to do the right thing for the UK” and questioned the repeated claim about peak oil.
