Questions Arise Over Andy Burnham's Position on Oil and Gas
The question of whether to proceed with North Sea oil drilling is a significant issue awaiting Andy Burnham as he prepares to enter 10 Downing Street.
Burnham, the MP for Makerfield, is anticipated to be confirmed as the UK's next prime minister soon after securing the support of nearly 350 Labour MPs.
On Tuesday, just 24 hours before the leadership nominations deadline, Burnham received a letter from the oil and gas industry and trade unions urging him—and all Labour MPs—to "back North Sea oil and gas."
The UK government is soon expected to decide whether to approve two oil fields: Rosebank and Jackdaw.
Labour's 2024 manifesto takes a firm stance on this matter.
It states: "We will not issue new licences to explore new fields because they will not take a penny off bills, cannot make us energy secure, and will only accelerate the worsening climate crisis."
However, Rosebank and Jackdaw present a different scenario, as their development processes were initiated before Labour assumed power.
Therefore, Labour's decision under Andy Burnham may provide insight into his approach to the North Sea oil sector.
The oil and gas industry has called on the next Labour government to support the sector.
Diverse Pressures on Burnham from Industry, Unions, and Colleagues
Burnham faces lobbying not only from unions and industry representatives but also from within his own party.
Some Labour MPs advocate for a more permissive approach to drilling.
They suggest that Burnham's background—originating from a region affected by de-industrialisation—might make him more sympathetic to the industry's concerns.
One MP highlighted the broad spectrum of pressures confronting the incoming prime minister, ranging from public concern over energy bills to external voices like Donald Trump, who frequently promotes increased North Sea drilling.
The letter sent to Labour MPs stated: "Support for the oil and gas industry is a signal that the country remains committed to producing, building and manufacturing. It is a signal that government backs the people and places that have powered this country for generations."
This message appears tailored to appeal to Andy Burnham, a politician who emphasizes a "place first" approach.
Conversely, Burnham is also contending with strong lobbying from environmentalist MPs within Labour.
Environmental Concerns and Protests
Environmental advocates have noted the unusually hot summer in Westminster as a tangible example of climate change impacts.
They argue that the appropriate response is to avoid further drilling and instead intensify efforts to develop renewable energy sources.
"Andy embodies the challenge," an MP remarked, referring to Burnham's dual experiences.
They noted that during his tenure as Mayor of Greater Manchester, Burnham took significant climate action, particularly focusing on improving public transport availability.
At the same time, he witnessed the decline of certain industries in the North West of England.
There is a perception among several Scottish Labour MPs that Burnham may adopt a more liberal stance on North Sea drilling compared to the current administration.
Reports suggest that Ed Miliband, who previously condemned the Rosebank licence as "climate vandalism," might now be open to approving the Jackdaw field.
Shifting Political Climate on North Sea Drilling
This shift may reflect a broader political evolution, as Labour is not the only party reconsidering its position.
The Scottish National Party (SNP) has also shown signs of change.
In 2023, Nicola Sturgeon's administration established a presumption against new drilling.
In 2021, Sturgeon stated in the Holyrood chamber that the Cambo oil field off Shetland should not proceed.
At that time, the Scottish government appeared opposed to expanding North Sea development.
However, by 2026, following a cost of living crisis, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and uncertainties in the Strait of Hormuz, attitudes have shifted.
John Swinney, Scotland's First Minister, softened his stance earlier this year, emphasizing that energy security should factor into decisions about new exploration.
Additionally, Stephen Flynn, the new economy secretary in Scotland who won his north east seat in the May Holyrood election, declared his intention to be a vocal "champion" for oil and gas workers.
Calls for Approval and Political Nuances
Recently, SNP MSP Jack Middleton, representing Aberdeen Central, advocated for proceeding with both Rosebank and Jackdaw, stating,
"We should be decreasing our reliance on countries in the Middle East and from friends of Vladimir Putin."
Middleton, a former advisor to John Swinney, reflects a relaxed stance within the Scottish government regarding SNP politicians publicly supporting drilling projects.
Even the Conservative Party, traditionally supportive of oil and gas exploration, has intensified its rhetoric.
Kemi Badenoch pledged to "get Britain drilling," a message that resonated with voters in Aberdeen South, where a Conservative MP was recently elected in a Westminster by-election.
Regarding Rosebank and Jackdaw, the UK government's official position is that decisions will be made "in due course."
Upcoming Challenges for Andy Burnham
Upon entering 10 Downing Street, Andy Burnham will face numerous complex political decisions.
Issues such as defence funding, welfare bills, and immigration policy will demand his attention.
Amid these priorities, he must promptly clarify his approach to the future of the North Sea oil sector.
This decision is likely to disappoint some members of his party as well as segments of the public.
