Key facts
- Jackdaw will contribute less than 3% of the UK's total gas needs.
- The project will support hundreds of jobs, with Adura stating nearly 300 associated with the Shearwater hub.
- The government aims to use North Sea profits to speed up the green transition.
- Environmental campaigners argue the field will provide only 2% of UK gas demand for about 10 years.
- The decision was delayed to occur after a local byelection where Labour defended a seat against a Green challenge.
The UK government has approved the controversial Jackdaw gasfield in the North Sea, a move that has drawn criticism from environmental campaigners and some Labour MPs. Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated the decision will protect hundreds of jobs and help keep millions of homes warm this winter, while reaffirming the commitment to net zero by 2050. Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh said the decision is compatible with climate commitments and will boost energy security with homegrown gas. The Jackdaw field is expected to supply gas from this winter. The operator, Adura, stated the project will support nearly 300 jobs associated with the nearby Shearwater hub. However, Green Party leader Zack Polanski described the approval as 'climate vandalism' and a 'betrayal of all our futures', arguing it will make no difference to energy bills and will create only 27 direct jobs. Campaigners estimate Jackdaw will provide only 2% of UK gas demand for about 10 years.