Political battle intensifies within Labour over Rosebank oil field
Scottish Labour leader Michael Marra is urging Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh to approve the Rosebank oil field, arguing it would support jobs, investment and public finances. The dispute reflects a broader shift within Labour, where the party’s pledge against new North Sea drilling is being tested by energy security and the rising cost of living.
Rosebank, 80 miles north-west of Shetland, is the UK’s largest untapped oil field; its approval would concern existing licences rather than grant new ones. Fahnbulleh recently approved production at the Jackdaw gas field, which the government says could support gas supply, hundreds of jobs and add £2.9bn to the economy over 11 years. Environmental campaigners oppose Rosebank, saying it would hinder climate efforts without meaningfully improving energy security, while Fahnbulleh says the decision is a regulatory process and rests with her.
In short
- Michael Marra is pressing for Rosebank approval.
- Jackdaw approval has sharpened Labour’s energy debate.
- Environmental groups say Rosebank would harm climate goals.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Approving Rosebank could support jobs, investment and public revenues, while adding domestic oil production at a time when households face high energy costs and the UK is weighing its energy security. Supporters may also argue that the field involves existing licences, so approval would honour prior commitments and provide some supply during the transition away from fossil fuels.
The case against
Opponents argue that new oil production would add to emissions and make climate targets harder to meet, while doing little to lower bills or improve energy security because oil is sold into international markets. They may favour directing investment towards cleaner energy and argue that existing licences do not remove the need to assess whether Rosebank is compatible with climate goals.