Andy Burnham has named Miatta Fahnbulleh as the new energy secretary, a move that surprises those who expected a shift toward increased North Sea drilling. The appointment signals continuity with Labour’s net‑zero agenda rather than a break from Ed Miliband’s legacy.

Fahnbulleh, a long‑time ally of Miliband, has repeatedly urged the target to be brought forward, calling for a 2030s net‑zero finish. In 2019 she argued for a global Green New Deal to reach zero 10 to 15 years. The Friends of the Earth energy lead welcomed the choice, citing her vocal stance on fossil‑fuel reduction.

Industry lobbyists, including Offshore Energies UK and Ineos Energy, fear the decision will stall projects like Jackdaw and Rosebank underline, while climate campaigners and Donald Trump have seized on speculation of new licensing. Lucy Powell, deputy Labour leader, said the ban on new exploration licences remains, describing Burnham’s policy as a shift in emphasis, not policy.

Experts such as Michael Jacobs say the appointment reassures green‑economy supporters that the UK will not retreat from climate commitments. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero highlighted £100 bn in private clean‑energy investment secured in the new parliament.