Burnham Risks Labour Backlash Over New Oil and Gas Drilling Plans 2026

Andy Burnham risks his first confrontation with Labour MPs if he announces new oil and gas drilling licences when he becomes prime minister, insiders have warned. The debate over energy policy is heating up as speculation grows over potential new drilling in the North Sea.

Burnham's North Sea Plans Under Scrutiny

Speculation is rife that Burnham will unveil fresh plans for drilling in the North Sea after he is installed in Downing Street. Although earlier reports suggested details of his proposals could come as soon as Monday, a decision is now expected to be taken at a later date. Burnham’s team has not confirmed the details of its North Sea plans and whether they would involve new exploration licences or so-called “tiebacks” – where offshore oil and gasfields are connected to already approved production facilities via pipelines.

Labour Manifesto Commitment vs. New Drilling

In Labour’s 2024 manifesto, it pledged to honour existing exploration licences but not issue new ones. The Guardian understands that the tieback arrangements would allow new drilling to take place without technically breaching the manifesto commitment, although any new activity is likely to anger some backbenchers and climate campaigners.

One source said the prospect of new drilling was the subject of “extensive” discussions among MPs on Saturday, many of whom are worried that it could affect the climate, while having little impact on energy bills and security.

Key Sites: Rosebank and Jackdaw

The debate largely centres around two sites, Rosebank and Jackdaw, off the north-eastern coast of Scotland. Licences for the proposed sites were approved under the Conservatives, but were overturned last year by a Scottish court, which ruled that the government would have to consider the environmental impact before agreeing to let new drilling go ahead.

Comparison of Rosebank and Jackdaw Projects

Political Fallout and Energy Priorities

The energy secretary, Ed Miliband, a Burnham ally who is tipped for a senior role in his cabinet, has previously described the Rosebank licence as “climate vandalism”. Burnham, confirmed as Labour leader on Friday, has indicated that cutting the cost of living will be a priority for his government.

However, Mike Reader, an MP who is part of Labour’s environment campaign group, which has been vocal about climate action, is expected to push back against any new drilling approvals. The tension between economic growth and environmental commitments remains a central challenge for Burnham’s leadership.

Key Takeaways

• Andy Burnham faces potential backlash from Labour MPs over new oil and gas drilling plans.
• Tieback arrangements may allow drilling without technically breaking Labour's manifesto pledge.
• Rosebank and Jackdaw are the two key sites at the centre of the debate.
• Ed Miliband has previously opposed the Rosebank licence, calling it climate vandalism.
• Burnham prioritizes cost of living, but climate concerns remain a major issue.

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