Trump proposes Starmer drill oil in the North Sea, a potential move that sparks controversy over environmental impacts.
In a recent development, former US President Donald Trump has urged Keir Starmer, the Leader of the Labour Party in the UK, to explore more North Sea oil to lower energy costs for households and businesses.
Trump's comments, made during a visit to his Turnberry golf course in Scotland, are likely to add pressure on Starmer to address the issue of soaring energy bills in the UK. Trump claimed that the North Sea, which he referred to as a 'great asset', could be a treasure chest of oil, and that companies had been discouraged from drilling due to taxes and regulations.
However, Starmer has contradicted Trump's view, stating that renewable energy would be a part of the UK's energy mix. The National Energy System Operator reported that wind energy made up nearly a third of the UK's total electricity generation in 2025.
The UK government has already taken steps to reduce energy costs by banning the issuance of new oil and gas licences in the North Sea. However, Kemi Badenoch, a prominent Conservative politician, has proposed extending the lifespan of existing infrastructure and easing regulatory processes to boost domestic energy supply and reduce costs.
Badenoch's proposal is not without controversy. Reform UK, a political party, has pledged to end net zero commitments and all related subsidies for the sector. This stance could potentially impact the UK's efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to a greener energy mix.
Trump's comments are not the first time he has challenged Starmer on the North Sea. During his visit to the UK in June, Trump had stated, 'You have a great asset here, it's called the North Sea. It's phenomenal.'
The high energy costs in the UK, which are four times higher than the US for industrial users, have been blamed on higher taxes and lower production levels in the North Sea. Analysts suggest that easing regulations and increasing production could help bring down these costs.
However, the decision to drill for more oil in the North Sea is a complex one, with environmental and political implications. The potential impact on the UK's carbon emissions targets and the public's support for renewable energy are key considerations.
In response to Trump's comments, Starmer reiterated his commitment to lowering energy costs, stating, 'I am absolutely determined to lower energy costs for households and businesses.' The Labour Party has not yet announced specific plans to increase oil drilling in the North Sea.
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