US President-elect Donald Trump has welcomed reports that incoming UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham could support new North Sea oil and gas drilling, claiming the new leader will «open up the North Sea all the way» and move away from wind energy. In a social media post, Trump celebrated the prospect of increased fossil fuel production in British waters, saying he «loves Scotland» and suggesting the new government would reverse current restrictions on exploration.
The comments come amid reports that Burnham, who is set to become prime minister, is considering approving new fossil fuel production licences in the North Sea, a move that would mark a significant shift from the previous government's policy of limiting new drilling to meet climate targets. Trump, who has long been a vocal supporter of fossil fuel expansion, claimed that Burnham would «move the horrible windmills» and prioritise oil and gas extraction.
Burnham has not confirmed the reports, and his team has declined to comment on the specific claims made by Trump. However, the incoming prime minister has previously signalled a more pragmatic approach to energy policy, balancing climate commitments with economic concerns and energy security. The North Sea remains a key source of domestic oil and gas, and any decision to expand drilling would have significant implications for the UK's net-zero emissions target.
The potential policy shift has drawn sharp reactions from environmental groups and climate campaigners, who argue that new fossil fuel projects are incompatible with the UK's legally binding climate commitments. Greenpeace UK described the prospect of expanded drilling as «a disaster for the climate and for communities already hit by the cost-of-living crisis». The group called on Burnham to reject any pressure from Trump and to «double down on clean energy instead».
Industry representatives, however, have welcomed the possibility of new licences, arguing that domestic production is essential for energy independence and job security in Scotland's oil and gas sector. Offshore Energies UK, the industry body, said that «a balanced energy mix that includes homegrown oil and gas is vital for the UK's energy security and economic resilience». The sector supports tens of thousands of jobs, particularly in Aberdeen and the north-east of Scotland.
Trump's intervention adds a transatlantic dimension to the UK's energy policy debate. The president-elect has long championed fossil fuel production and has promised to «drill, baby, drill» as part of his economic agenda. His comments on Burnham suggest he sees the incoming UK leader as a potential ally in rolling back climate-focused energy policies. Trump also issued a message saying «we love you Scotland», a remark likely aimed at appealing to Scottish voters and businesses.
The controversy comes at a time when the UK is grappling with high energy prices and the need to transition to renewable sources. The previous government had imposed a moratorium on new North Sea oil and gas licences, citing climate goals, but faced criticism from industry and some Conservative MPs who argued the policy undermined energy security. Burnham's reported openness to new drilling could signal a recalibration of that approach.
Labour Party figures have been cautious in their response. Shadow energy secretary Lucy Powell said the party would «set out its energy policy in due course» and declined to comment on Trump's claims. Other Labour MPs have expressed concern that aligning with Trump on fossil fuels could damage the UK's international climate leadership and alienate younger voters who prioritise environmental action.
The debate over North Sea drilling is also politically sensitive in Scotland, where the Scottish National Party has opposed new licences and called for a just transition for oil and gas workers. Burnham, as a Manchester-area MP, does not represent a Scottish constituency, but his decisions on North Sea policy will directly affect Scottish communities and the devolved government's energy strategy.
Analysts note that any expansion of North Sea drilling would take years to materialise, given the time required for exploration, licensing, and development. The immediate impact may be more political than practical, shaping perceptions of the new government's priorities ahead of the next general election. The controversy also highlights the tension between short-term energy security needs and long-term climate goals, a challenge facing governments worldwide.
As Burnham prepares to take office, the energy policy direction he chooses will be closely watched by investors, environmentalists, and international partners. Trump's public endorsement of a pro-drilling stance adds external pressure, but the incoming prime minister will ultimately have to weigh domestic political considerations, economic realities, and the UK's climate obligations. The coming weeks are likely to bring further clarity on whether the reports of a policy shift are accurate and what form any new North Sea strategy might take.
