Tories say Rosebank refusal could leave Europe more reliant on Russian oil
The UK Government has approved gas production at the Jackdaw field, with supplies expected to start flowing within weeks, but has not indicated similar support for the Rosebank oil field. The distinction has intensified debate over energy security and climate policy: ministers say Jackdaw serves the domestic market, while Rosebank’s oil is mainly intended for export.
Conservative figures argue that approving Rosebank could reduce European purchases of Russian oil and give the North Sea industry greater certainty to invest. Labour MP Clive Lewis called Jackdaw “a drop in the ocean” compared with Rosebank, while suggesting the gas approval might signal a more pragmatic approach. The Energy Department said each project would be assessed on its own merits and described speculation about Rosebank being blocked as premature; Kemi Badenoch and Donald Trump also urged more North Sea drilling.
In short
- Jackdaw gas production has been approved, with supplies expected within weeks.
- Ministers have made no equivalent commitment on Rosebank.
- Conservatives say Rosebank could support energy security and industry investment.
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The case for
Supporters argue Rosebank could strengthen European energy security by adding oil from a reliable North Sea producer and reducing the need for Russian imports. They also say approval would give the UK industry greater certainty to invest, support jobs and tax revenues, and recognise that oil demand will not disappear immediately.
The case against
Opponents argue Rosebank’s oil is mainly intended for export, so it would do little to secure supplies for UK households or displace Russian imports in any predictable way. They contend that approving a new oil field would add to emissions and risk locking in investment that conflicts with climate goals, while resources could instead support cleaner energy and a managed transition for North Sea workers.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Ministers blocking Rosebank oil field will help Putin’s Russia, Tories warn – as Labour MP says Jackdaw approval a ‘drop in the ocean’ by comparison”.