Key facts
- Donald Trump praised UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham for approving gas drilling in the North Sea's Jackdaw field.
- Trump stated the decision would "make the UK a very rich country."
- The Jackdaw field is expected to produce gas by the end of the month.
- Environmental groups criticized the approval, citing climate change concerns.
Donald Trump praised UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham for approving gas drilling in the North Sea's Jackdaw field, stating the decision would "make the UK a very rich country." Trump contrasted Burnham's action with that of former Prime Minister Keir Starmer, whom he claimed never "got it done."
The Jackdaw field, located 150 miles east of Aberdeen, is operated by Adura, a joint venture between Shell and Norwegian state energy firm Equinor. Ministers indicated that gas could be produced by the end of the month, potentially heating millions of homes. The government also announced the creation of a new energy wealth fund.
Environmental campaigners have criticized the approval, arguing it will hinder climate change efforts and have minimal impact on energy security. They contend that the decision contradicts the UK's climate commitments. The Jackdaw field has the potential to meet around 1.6% of total projected national gas demand between 2026 and 2036 and could produce gas for the next 11 years.