Andy Burnham said he would take a “pragmatic” approach to North Sea oil and gas after Donald Trump claimed the new prime minister intended to open up the sector. The remarks suggest Burnham may be willing to reconsider Labour’s 2024 pledge not to issue new North Sea licences, potentially reshaping UK energy policy and relations with the US.

Burnham said the UK could not ignore North Sea resources while people were struggling, while Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh said existing licences could still be exploited but did not clarify whether new ones were planned. The government faces pressure to approve the Jackdaw gasfield and Rosebank oilfield; consultations close on 10 and 17 August respectively, while environmental campaigners argue further drilling would breach Labour’s manifesto and worsen climate change.