Key facts
- Incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham is expected to approve new North Sea oil and gas drilling projects.
- The planned approvals include the Jackdaw gas field and Rosebank oil field.
- This decision is part of a policy blitz by Burnham's incoming government.
- The move aims to boost domestic energy production and security.
- Previous approvals for these sites were overturned by courts.
- Public consultations for Jackdaw and Rosebank have been launched.
Incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham is reportedly poised to approve new drilling for oil and gas in the North Sea within days of taking office. His team is preparing plans for Adura, a joint venture between Shell and Equinor, to proceed with projects at the Jackdaw gas field and Rosebank oil field off the coast of Scotland, as well as expanding 'tie-backs' near existing fields. While no final decision has been made, Burnham is expected to signal favour for increased drilling, reportedly influenced by Scottish Labour MPs. The future of these sites has been a political point of contention, with current energy secretary Ed Miliband resisting new approvals due to environmental concerns and the net-zero agenda. Both Jackdaw and Rosebank projects have faced legal challenges, with previous approvals overturned. Public consultations for both fields were launched on Thursday, potentially delaying formal government approval. Adura's CEO, Neil McCulloch, stated that approving the sites would significantly benefit the UK by boosting energy security and domestic production, with Rosebank alone potentially contributing 10% of UK continental shelf oil output. Environmental groups and some on the left of the Labour party are expected to oppose the move, while trade unions and those on the right are likely to welcome it. Adura highlighted the economic opportunities, job creation, and revenue generation from these projects. The ultimate decision may rest with Burnham's choice for the next energy secretary.