Is Andy Burnham promising a new dawn for North Sea oil and gas?
Incoming UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is facing scrutiny over his stance on North Sea oil and gas drilling ahead of his transition to Downing Street. While he has pledged to honor existing licenses, his administration is expected to shift toward a more pragmatic approach to energy transition.
Why it matters
The policy direction on North Sea drilling is a critical intersection of climate change commitments, energy security, and economic policy in the UK.
Image source, PA Media By Kevin Keane Scotland energy correspondent Published 19 July 2026, 08:58 BST Updated 5 hours ago The final weekend before Andy Burnham enters Downing Street is being dominated by suggestions he'll announce plans for new drilling in the North Sea.
On Saturday, the BBC reported the in-coming prime minister would stick to the party's 2024 manifesto pledge to issue no new oil and gas licences but would honour existing ones.
That line has been confirmed as the hours count down to the Burnham premiership.
Speaking on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg , Labour's deputy leader Lucy Powell said Burnham would stick to the party's manifesto commitments, but there would be a "change of emphasis" on North Sea oil and gas.
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