The push to approve Jackdaw and Rosebank argues the fields could unlock about 2.9 billion barrels of oil and gas, with Jackdaw potentially supplying over 6% of Britain’s gas this winter and Rosebank identified as the largest undeveloped field in British waters at roughly 300 million barrels.

Conservative lawmakers urge Prime Minister to end delays, back the Jackdaw and Rosebank projects, lift the ban on new North Sea drilling licenses, and scrap the Energy Profits Levy to attract investment and safeguard jobs.

They warn that without new production Britain could be importing about 82% of its gas by 2035, heightening vulnerability to global energy shocks.

The government has not set a public decision date beyond ongoing regulatory reviews, stating any choice will weigh environmental assessments and public input.

Environmental groups oppose approval, citing climate risks, while supporters contend drilling would protect jobs, lower bills, and strengthen energy security.

Labour responds by criticizing the Tories’ past economic and energy policies and defending its own approach to energy policy.

The projects were approved by a prior Conservative government but were ruled unlawful by a Scottish court after challenges from Greenpeace and others.

Key supporters include Neil McCulloch, CEO of Adura, who touts economic value and job protection, and Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh, who promises prompt decisions aligned with climate commitments.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero says the North Sea remains a vital asset, with decisions considering environmental assessments, public representations, and regulatory processes, and Energy Secretary Fahnbulleh signaling decisions will be made at pace.

Labour criticizes the government by blaming the previous administration for economic and energy issues, while the department emphasizes the North Sea’s ongoing importance and a balanced regulatory process.

Critics, including Oxfam Scotland, argue the related report may be biased and underestimates climate-change costs, warning continued fossil fuel development could cause long-term climate and health damages, including excess deaths by 2100.

Labour remains divided on the issue, with tensions over manifesto pledges not to issue new North Sea licenses.