Is Burnham’s No 10 North working out?

Andy Burnham should highlight the potential for increased North Sea oil and gas drilling during his upcoming discussions with the European Union, a new report suggests. The advisory firm PF Global claims that failing to utilize the region's reserves could leave Europe vulnerable to future diesel shortages. The report, titled A UK-European Oil System, advises the Prime Minister to leverage the UK’s oil and gas industry during the EU’s upcoming reset talks in November 2026.

Norway, which is outside the EU, has built strong relationships with European partners based on its reliability as a supplier. The UK can make a similar case, presenting UKCS oil production as a contribution to shared resilience before the November summit. The report recommends approving the Rosebank oilfield in Shetland as a priority to alleviate supply pressures and bolster European energy security.

With limited options available during supply crises, the authors argue that supporting Rosebank’s development would enhance both UK and European security. Adura, the company owning both Rosebank and the recently authorized Jackdaw gasfield, is waiting for energy secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh's decision on the matter. This comes just weeks before the UK-EU summit, where Burnham is expected to push for closer ties with the trading bloc.