Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has joined the debate around the proposed coal mine in Whitehaven, coming out strongly against the plans.

Mr Burnham said: “The fact the Government has not intervened to halt the planned Cambo oil field and the coal mine in Cumbria is evidence that the UK is not practising what it preaches.”

Speaking on 'transport day' at Cop26, he continued: “Critically, with the climate debate, practise what you preach.

“One of the things that has undermined Cop has been a lot of preaching, but the actions of people haven’t matched up to the words.”

Mr Burnham’s words were echoed by many people, particularly environmental groups and climate activists.

However, some local politicians and authorities are in favour of the plans.

Allerdale MP Mark Jenkinson spoke on the matter earlier this year.

He said: “I am sick of hearing the incredible NIMBYism from climate alarmists – who would rather we ship coking coal across the world from countries with often dubious environmental, and health and safety records.

“There is no commercial alternative to coke in the steel making process. Hydrogen can deal with some earlier parts of the process but is nowhere near perfected and is unlikely to be commercialised and adopted in a big way in the foreseeable future.”

Other local officials like Mayor of Copeland Mike Starkie and MP Trudy Harrison have also given their support in recent months for the mine.