Britain risks importing 82% of its gas by 2035 unless new North Sea production like Jackdaw and Rosebank is approved, with over £3 billion already invested and strong claims that delaying these projects costs the economy.

Supporters argue scrapping current policies could unlock 2.9 billion barrels of oil and gas and £165 billion in economic value, preserving about 200,000 skilled jobs and boosting domestic energy security.

They say approving Jackdaw and Rosebank could supply a significant share of winter gas—Jackdaw potentially more than 6% of Britain’s gas this winter—while Rosebank stands as the largest undeveloped field in British waters with around 300 million barrels.

Key voices include Neil McCulloch, CEO of Adura, highlighting the economic value and jobs at stake, and Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh promising prompt decisions aligned with climate commitments.

The government stresses that consent will be based on all evidence and public input, with energy security a priority amid high prices and geopolitical uncertainty.

Labour counters prior government missteps on economics and energy, defending its own approach and criticizing Conservative policy history.

The UK government is weighing whether to authorize the projects, which were approved by the previous Conservative government, amid a broader debate on North Sea drilling and energy security.

Supporters urge immediate approval, blaming Labour for delaying due to fears of a Green Party victory, and call to end the licence ban and windfall tax.

Shadow energy secretary Andrew Bowie accuses Labour Leader Andy Burnham of dithering over Green Party politics and pushes for quick approval of Jackdaw and Rosebank and a return to licencing.

The report notes most jobs would be in Scotland and emphasizes the North Sea’s importance for energy security and public finances, while acknowledging emissions considerations and the climate transition.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero says North Sea oil and gas remain a vital asset, with decisions informed by environmental assessments, public input, and regulatory processes, and that decisions will be made at pace.

Energy Secretary Fahnbulleh and the government stress ongoing North Sea importance alongside a long-term transition to clean energy, guided by assessments and regulations.