Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has launched a scathing attack on incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham, branding him a 'people pleaser' with 'airy fairy' plans. In an interview with the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Badenoch criticised Burnham for failing to set out his approach before formally becoming Prime Minister on Monday.
Badenoch's Criticism
Badenoch described Burnham's comments so far as 'airy fairy stuff' and accused him of avoiding tough decisions. 'What I'm not going to do is give Andy Burnham a blank cheque,' she said. 'This is a man who doesn't want scrutiny, he doesn't want anyone asking him tough questions, he just wants to be a people pleaser.' The Tory leader added that she would 'score as many points as possible if it means the right thing for the country,' despite Burnham's pledge to end political 'point scoring' in Westminster.
Burnham's Plans
Burnham intends to make a 'dynamic' start to his premiership, focusing on providing 'breathing space' on the cost of living and boosting economic growth across the UK. Reports suggest he may approve new oil and gas drilling in the North Sea, a move that would break a promise in Labour's 2024 manifesto. However, his ambitions remain largely uncertain, with Cabinet appointments also not yet confirmed.
North Sea Oil and Gas Controversy
Industry leaders and trade union bosses have urged Burnham to back North Sea oil and gas, arguing it would reduce reliance on fossil fuel imports from 'volatile regions' that involve higher emissions. However, Green Party MP Adrian Ramsey warned that drilling would be 'exactly the wrong response' to 'climate and nature crises' and 'do nothing to bring down energy bills.' The issue was a flashpoint during Sir Keir Starmer's tenure, with Conservative backing for more drilling helping the party win its first parliamentary by-election in Scotland for almost 50 years last month.
Complications for Burnham
Burnham's support for oil and gas projects could be complicated by his choice of Chancellor. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, a staunch supporter of Labour's commitment not to drill, is among the top contenders for the role. The new Prime Minister faces pressure from both sides as he prepares to enter Number 10.
