Prime Minister Andy Burnham faces the first major revolt of his premiership as Labour MPs and climate experts condemn his apparent support for renewed North Sea drilling for oil and gas. The controversy comes amid the UK's worst drought since 1976, soaring temperatures, and wildfires, raising questions about the government's commitment to climate action.
Burnham's Pragmatic Stance on Oil and Gas
Speaking at a community centre in Sheffield, Burnham repeated his intention to be "pragmatic" about oil and gas, stating that decisions on new drilling would be made "in due course." He argued, "The question isn't whether Britain will still be using oil and gas, the question is where does it come from." This position has alarmed many within his own party who fear the electoral consequences of supporting fossil fuel expansion.
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Labour MPs and Climate Experts React
Rachael Maskell, Labour MP for York Central, urged ministers to "keep carbon in the ground" and heed the recent national emergency climate briefing. She warned, "We're seeing ice caps melting, seas warming up, hotter and hotter summers. This summer has been a warning that we have to go towards a sustainable future fast." Clive Lewis, MP for Norwich South, argued there is "no legitimate reason" to approve projects like the Jackdaw gasfield, as they would have negligible impact on energy prices while sending the wrong signal internationally.
The Threat of Voter Defection to Greens
Many Labour MPs worry that supporting drilling will drive voters to the Green Party, which has strongly opposed new North Sea licences, including Jackdaw and the Rosebank oilfield. A decision to proceed could trigger a surge in defections, undermining Labour's electoral base. The UN secretary-general's warning that "every new fossil fuel project" makes heatwaves more dangerous adds further pressure on the government.
Comparison of Key Projects
| Project | Location | Status | Climate Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jackdaw Gasfield | North Sea | Awaiting approval | High – new fossil fuel source |
| Rosebank Oilfield | West of Shetland | Awaiting approval | High – significant oil reserves |
| Existing UK fields | Various | Operational | Ongoing emissions |
Key Takeaways
- Burnham's support for drilling risks a Labour rebellion and voter loss to Greens.
- Climate experts and UN warnings highlight the dangers of new fossil fuel projects.
- The UK's extreme weather this summer underscores the urgency of sustainable transition.
- Labour MPs call for keeping carbon in the ground and prioritizing renewable energy.
FAQ
Why is Andy Burnham supporting North Sea drilling?
What are the Jackdaw and Rosebank projects?
How could this affect Labour's electoral prospects?
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