Burnham risks Labour backlash if he reverses ban on new oil and gas drilling
Party manifesto pledged to honour existing North Sea exploration licences but not issue new ones
AI Summary
Andy Burnham, the incoming prime minister, is expected to reverse Labour's 2024 manifesto pledge and allow new oil and gas drilling licenses in the North Sea. The decision comes amid pressure from Conservatives and Reform UK, as well as from trade unions and some Labour MPs urging support for the sector. Burnham is set to take office on Monday and outline his policy agenda, which also includes plans to nationalize water and energy companies and build council houses.