Liz Truss, who is the favourite to become the UK’s next prime minister when the Conservative Party concludes its leadership contest next month, plans to approve new exploration and production licences in the North Sea, according to media reports.

Citing “senior allies” of Truss, London-based newspaper The Times said she will open the door to “as many as 130” new licences.

There was also a reference to further incentives to squeeze additional production from existing assets.