How will Burnham navigate the North Sea?

How will Burnham navigate the North Sea?

Author: The New Statesman August 24, 2026 Duration: 30:10

One of the first big decisions of Andy Burnham’s premiership is looming: whether to drill for North Sea oil and gas. 


Labour made a manifesto promise not to grant new licences for oil and gas exploration, but the question of whether to go ahead and drill at the Rosebank and Jackdaw sites - offshore oil and gas fields that have pre-existing licences - remains.


After a summer of wildfires and heatwaves, but with our energy security and cost-of-living precarious, the new Prime Minister faces a political dilemma.


Anoosh Chakelian is joined by political editor Ailbhe Rea.

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Each weekday, Daily Politics from the New Statesman cuts through the noise of the 24-hour news cycle to offer something more substantial. Hosted by Anoosh Chakelian and Oli Dugmore, along with the wider New Statesman team, this isn't just a recap of headlines. Instead, it provides sharp reporting and clear analysis from the heart of Westminster, paired with thoughtful conversations that look beyond the capital to the cultural and societal forces shaping the political landscape. You'll hear from the magazine's own journalists and a range of expert guests who help explain not just what is happening, but why it matters. The perspective is inherently progressive, rooted in the New Statesman's long tradition as a leading voice in British political commentary. Tuning into this podcast means getting a deeper, more considered understanding of the day's events, delivered with clarity and insight. It’s designed for anyone who feels that politics is too important to be left to soundbites, offering a reliable and engaging daily digest that makes complex issues accessible without oversimplifying them.
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