Story perspectives

Burnham Becomes PM Amid Heatwave Deaths, Gas Licence Debate

7/18/2026

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Burnham Prepares PM

Heatwaves this summer have killed thousands and sparked wildfires in Greater Manchester while Andy Burnham prepares to become prime minister.
Officials say approving Jackdaw gasfield and Rosebank licences not breach Labour’s manifesto, as they were issued by the Conservative government.
Burnham set a 2038 net-zero target and expanded electric buses and home insulation.
He says he remains open-minded about additional North Sea drilling.

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Burnham Greenlights Drilling

Trade unions and oil-gas companies sent an open letter urging Labour to back North Sea drilling as a national commitment.
Andy Burnham will approve Jackdaw and Rosebank licences, saying they do not breach Labour’s manifesto because previous government issued them.
Public ownership of water and energy firms and a council-house building programme will be announced.
After Ed Miliband reported out of chancellor race, Zack Polanski called Burnham ‘too in hock’.

History

Historical Context

North Sea oil began flowing in 1975 when BP’s Forties field entered production, sparking a boom that peaked in 1999 at about 128 million tonnes (?398 million barrels). Since then output has steadily fallen, though recoverable reserves remain sizable and new licences continue to be granted. Today Labour leader Andy Burnham faces the same tension, approving Jackdaw and Rosebank licences while pledging a 2038 net-zero target.

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Burnham Prepares PM

Heatwaves this summer have killed thousands and sparked wildfires in Greater Manchester while Andy Burnham prepares to become prime minister.
Officials say approving Jackdaw gasfield and Rosebank licences not breach Labour’s manifesto, as they were issued by the Conservative government.
Burnham set a 2038 net-zero target and expanded electric buses and home insulation.
He says he remains open-minded about additional North Sea drilling.

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