Andy Burnham and Donald Trump spar over North Sea oil drilling promises

U.S. President Donald Trump told reporters that UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham had promised to "open up the North Sea" for oil and gas drilling, saying it would make the country wealthy. Burnham later clarified he only indicated a pragmatic stance on existing licences, noting the Labour manifesto still bans new drilling licences and any expansion would come from "tie‑backs" to already approved sites such as Rosebank and Jackdaw.

The remarks highlight a discrepancy between Trump’s interpretation of the call and the UK government's stated policy, and raise questions about how the two leaders will handle expectations around North Sea resources.

Environmental groups have warned that any new approvals could face legal challenges, while Burnham faces pressure to balance Labour commitments with existing offshore projects.