US President Donald Trump has again claimed Prime Minister Andy Burnham told him he would 'open up North Sea oil' during a phone call between the two leaders, suggesting such a move would make the UK 'a wealthy country'.

Speaking at a White House briefing yesterday, Mr Trump said: 'Well, he did say one very good thing. He said he’s going to open up North Sea oil. If he does that, you’re going to be a wealthy country.'

The comments come as the new UK Government faces growing calls from industry to approve projects including Rosebank and Jackdaw, although Downing Street declined to comment on any future North Sea drilling plans following the leaders' conversation.

Mr Trump added: 'You have one of the most valuable oil finds anywhere in the world, and if the United Kingdom would use it, they’d be a wealthy country again,' before concluding: 'The new gentleman, when I spoke to him, he said he’s going to open up the North Sea. Let’s see if that happens.'

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Source: Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce