Charities have cautioned against Andy Burnham’s approval of new drilling licences in the North Sea, citing potential harm to UK’s security and families grappling with living costs. In a significant move, 19 organizations, including Oxfam and Greenpeace, penned a letter to the incoming Prime Minister expressing concerns over a possible shift away from renewable energy focus. The new PM is anticipated to outline plans for easing living expenses and promoting economic growth across the nation. Reports suggest this may involve endorsing fresh oil and gas drilling in the North Sea, a move that contradicts Labour’s 2024 manifesto pledge. Various groups, including RSPB, Oxfam, Friends of the Earth, and Green Alliance, urged Burnham to refrain from issuing new licences in a joint letter. Greenpeace UK’s program director criticized any potential weakening of Labour’s stance on North Sea drilling, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability. The executive director of NGO Uplift warned against caving to oil and gas interests, highlighting the need to prioritize people’s well-being and sustainable job opportunities. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has backed Labour’s manifesto commitment on the North Sea, a stance that has attracted both support and opposition within Westminster. The issue of new drilling has sparked debates among unions, with differing opinions on its economic and environmental implications. Critics argue that increased production in the North Sea would not alleviate energy costs significantly and could incur higher extraction expenses. Labour has refrained from commenting on the matter.