Key facts
- Labour MPs are lobbying leadership not to overrule Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh on the Rosebank oilfield decision.
- Chancellor John Healey reportedly favors approving the oilfield, while Prime Minister Andy Burnham insists the decision is Fahnbulleh's alone.
- Fahnbulleh's aides circulated a memo stating she is the sole decision-maker and will consider all relevant factors.
- The Treasury has factored an estimated £500 million in tax revenues from Rosebank into OBR forecasts since 2019.
- MPs warn of a significant parliamentary rebellion if Rosebank is approved, citing environmental and economic concerns.
Furious Labour MPs are lobbying Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Chancellor John Healey not to overrule Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh on her decision regarding the Rosebank oilfield. Sources suggest Fahnbulleh is inclined to refuse environmental permission for the project, sparking concerns among backbenchers about cabinet splits and the environmental impact. While Healey reportedly favors the scheme and Burnham insists the decision rests solely with Fahnbulleh, MPs are worried about political intervention. Fahnbulleh's aides have circulated a memo emphasizing her sole decision-making authority. The Treasury has included an estimated £500 million in tax revenues from Rosebank in Office for Budget Responsibility forecasts since 2019, a move some MPs criticize as aggressive and economically shortsighted.