Burnham to announce plans for new North Sea oil and gas drilling

The BBC reports that incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham plans to announce approval for new North Sea oil and gas drilling upon taking office Monday, reversing Labour's 2024 manifesto pledge against new licences—a significant policy shift that centers on two previously approved fields (Rosebank and Jackdaw) whose licenses were overturned in 2025 following legal challenges. The reporting is sourced from BBC knowledge of Burnham's plans and contextualizes the decision within ongoing party divisions: some Labour MPs support expanded drilling to protect jobs and energy costs, while others (including current Energy Secretary Ed Miliband) oppose it on climate and energy-transition grounds, with external pressure from the oil industry, trade unions, and US President Trump. Independent coverage from Bloomberg, Rigzone, and City AM corroborates the core announcement and timing, confirming Burnham's intention to act quickly upon taking office. Critical readers should monitor: (1) the specific details of the new drilling plan when announced, including environmental assessments; (2) Ed Miliband's cabinet role and whether he publicly supports or distances himself from the policy; (3) Labour backbench reaction and potential dissent; and (4) how the decision affects the party's renewable energy targets and international climate commitments.