Andy Burnham's incoming administration is poised to make a significant policy shift in favour of increased oil and gas drilling in the North Sea, a move that has sparked heated debate within Labour ranks and among environmental groups. As he prepares to take office, reports suggest that Mr Burnham's team has requested detailed plans for the approval of new projects at the Jackdaw gas field and Rosebank oil field, both of which are owned by Adura, a joint venture between Shell and Equinor.
The policy change comes as the UK seeks to bolster its domestic energy production in light of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and mounting concerns about energy security. Previously, the current Secretary of State for Energy, Ed Miliband, had resisted calls for increased drilling, citing concerns that it would undermine the UK's net-zero agenda. However, Mr Burnham is widely expected to signal his support for increased drilling, a move that could be seen as a departure from Labour's long-held stance on reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
The Jackdaw and Rosebank projects have faced significant legal challenges in the past, with previous approvals being overturned by the courts on grounds of illegality. Despite this, public consultations for both projects commenced last Thursday (17 July 2026), paving the way for formal approval once the process is complete. However, an official close to the matter has indicated that approving these fields would not contravene Labour's pledge to ban fresh licences for exploring new fields, as the existing grants were issued under the previous Conservative government.
While some have welcomed the potential approval of these projects, citing the economic benefits and energy security they could bring, others have expressed concerns about the impact on the environment. The decision will ultimately rest with the individual Mr Burnham appoints to the role of Secretary of State for Energy, a position currently held by Ed Miliband.
Neil McCulloch, chief executive of Adura, has described approving both sites as crucial for unlocking significant benefits for the UK, including bolstering energy security ahead of the winter months. Conversely, Sharon Graham, General Secretary of Unite the Union, has previously characterised a ban on new licences as "an act of monumental political self-harm," highlighting the potential economic implications of such a move.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has expressed her willingness to support exploration at both sites in April, sparking further debate within Labour ranks. As Mr Burnham prepares to make this significant policy announcement, it remains to be seen whether his decision will strike a balance between energy security and environmental concerns or mark a departure from Labour's long-held stance on reducing reliance on fossil fuels.