Donald Trump has welcomed reports that incoming UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham could approve new North Sea oil and gas drilling, with the US president claiming the new leader would «open up the North Sea all the way». The comments, made on social media, mark a significant intervention in British energy policy as Mr Burnham prepares to take office.
Mr Trump wrote that Mr Burnham would «move the horrible windmills» and back fossil fuel production, a stance that would represent a major shift from the previous government’s commitment to net-zero emissions. The president’s remarks came after unconfirmed reports suggested the incoming prime minister was considering approving new licences for oil and gas exploration in the North Sea.
Mr Burnham has not confirmed the reports, and his team has declined to comment on the speculation. However, the prospect of a change in energy policy has already drawn sharp reactions from environmental groups and industry representatives. Green campaigners have warned that any move to expand drilling would undermine the UK’s climate commitments, while oil and gas companies have welcomed the possibility of new investment.
The reports emerged amid growing pressure on the UK government to address rising energy costs and secure domestic supplies. The North Sea remains a significant source of oil and gas, but production has declined in recent years as older fields are depleted and new projects face regulatory hurdles. Supporters of new drilling argue it would boost energy security and create jobs, particularly in Scotland, where the industry is a major employer.
Mr Trump’s intervention is likely to complicate Mr Burnham’s position, as the US president has been a vocal critic of climate policies that restrict fossil fuel development. The president’s message, which included a «we love you Scotland» greeting, appeared designed to appeal to voters in the region, where the oil and gas industry holds significant political influence.
The incoming prime minister has promised to be a leader for «all places» and has emphasised the need to balance environmental goals with economic realities. During his campaign, Mr Burnham stressed the importance of investing in renewable energy but also acknowledged the role of oil and gas in the transition period. His stance on North Sea drilling will be closely watched by both environmentalists and industry leaders.
The previous government had committed to ending new oil and gas licences as part of its net-zero strategy, a policy that was opposed by some Conservative MPs and industry groups. Mr Burnham’s potential shift on the issue could signal a broader rethinking of the UK’s energy approach, though any decision would require parliamentary approval and face legal challenges from environmental activists.
Environmental groups have already mobilised against the prospect of new drilling. Thousands of parents have signed a petition calling on Mr Burnham to adapt British infrastructure and commit to renewable energies over drilling in the North Sea, following record-breaking temperatures this year. The petition, organised by mother Becky Ward, highlights the human cost of climate change, with Ms Ward stating that her son is «having seizures due to the heatwaves» and that «mothers like me are terrified».
The debate over North Sea drilling comes as the UK faces a critical juncture in its energy policy. The country has set ambitious targets for reducing carbon emissions, but the war in Ukraine and subsequent energy crisis have underscored the risks of relying on imported fossil fuels. Mr Burnham will need to navigate these competing pressures as he forms his government and sets out his agenda.
Industry analysts say that any new drilling projects would take years to come online and would not have an immediate impact on energy prices. However, the signal of a more permissive regulatory environment could encourage investment in the North Sea and help sustain the industry in the medium term. The Scottish government, which has devolved powers over energy policy, has indicated it would oppose new drilling, setting up a potential clash with Westminster.
Mr Trump’s comments have also reignited debate about the UK’s relationship with the US on climate and energy issues. The president has previously expressed scepticism about climate science and has rolled back environmental regulations in the United States. His endorsement of Mr Burnham’s reported plans could be seen as an attempt to influence British policy, though Downing Street has insisted that energy decisions will be made in the national interest.
As Mr Burnham prepares to take office, the question of North Sea drilling is likely to be one of the first major tests of his leadership. His response will shape the UK’s energy trajectory for years to come and will be closely scrutinised by allies and adversaries alike. For now, the incoming prime minister remains tight-lipped, leaving observers to speculate on the direction of his government’s energy policy.
