Labour MPs have told Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to ignore what they describe as 'deluded' demands for increased North Sea oil and gas drilling, arguing that such a move would be catastrophic for the UK's climate commitments. In a letter signed by over 20 Labour backbenchers, the MPs warned that expanding fossil fuel extraction would directly contradict the party's pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
MPs' Letter Calls for Climate Leadership
The letter, coordinated by the Labour Environment Campaign, states: 'We urge you to reject these short-sighted calls that would lock the UK into decades of fossil fuel dependence.' It adds that new drilling would 'sabotage' the UK's role as a global climate leader and harm the transition to renewable energy.
According to the signatories, the UK has already licensed more than enough oil and gas to meet domestic demand during the transition period. They cite analysis showing that existing fields could supply the country's needs until 2030 without new exploration.
Burnham's Stance Under Scrutiny
The intervention comes after Burnham faced pressure from some trade unions and industry groups to support new drilling licenses in the North Sea, arguing it would protect jobs and energy security. However, the MPs contend that the long-term economic benefits of renewables far outweigh any short-term gains from fossil fuels.
Shadow Climate Change Secretary Ed Miliband has previously stated that Labour would not issue new drilling licenses if elected, a position that Burnham has not fully endorsed. The letter urges Burnham to align with this policy and publicly oppose any expansion.
Climate Impact and Economic Arguments
Environmental groups have welcomed the MPs' stance, with Greenpeace UK's campaign director saying: 'The science is clear – we cannot afford to burn more fossil fuels. Every new drilling license is a step backward for the climate.'
Pro-drilling advocates argue that domestic production reduces reliance on imports and supports thousands of jobs in Scotland and northeast England. But the MPs' letter counters that the renewable sector already employs more people than oil and gas, and that investment in clean energy would create even more employment.
The debate highlights internal tensions within Labour over how to balance climate action with economic concerns, particularly in regions heavily dependent on the fossil fuel industry.
