Key facts
- Dozens of Labour MPs are urging Andy Burnham to reject the development of the Rosebank oilfield in the North Sea.
- New research suggests the Rosebank field would produce approximately 250 million tonnes of CO2 over its lifetime, about 70% of the UK's annual emissions.
- MPs argue that exploiting the field would not lower fuel prices and would contradict the UK's transition to clean energy.
- The International Energy Agency stated that new oil and gas fields would have minimal economic impact and would not reduce global prices.
- Over 60 Labour MPs and MSPs have publicly declared their opposition to approving the Rosebank development.
Dozens of Labour Members of Parliament have urged potential Prime Minister Andy Burnham to reject the development of the Rosebank oilfield in the North Sea, describing such a move as "tin-eared" and "deluded" in the face of climate change. New research indicates that the Rosebank field, primarily containing oil, could emit approximately 250 million tonnes of carbon dioxide over its lifespan, equivalent to about 70% of the UK's annual emissions. MPs argue that exploiting this field would not lower fuel prices, as oil is traded on the international market, and would do little for the UK's economy, while potentially exacerbating climate impacts like the recent record heatwaves.
Labour MPs like Mike Reader and Chris Murray have voiced strong opposition, emphasizing the consequences of fossil fuel reliance and advocating for a focus on clean energy manufacturing jobs. Scott Arthur highlighted the increasing frequency of climate-related events such as wildfires around Edinburgh. While the fossil fuel industry, Conservatives, Reform UK, and some unions are pressuring the government to approve further North Sea drilling, the International Energy Agency's executive director, Fatih Birol, stated that new fields would not reduce oil or gas prices and would have minimal economic benefit. Barry Gardiner pointed out that drilling more will not stem the ongoing job losses in the oil and gas sector, questioning where the party's allegiance lies. Rachael Maskell and Ed Miliband have called for continued progress on the energy transition, noting the significant economic value and job creation within the UK's green economy.