The UK government is expected to approve the Jackdaw gas field in the North Sea this month, according to government sources. Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh is set to recommend approval as early as next week, with the final decision anticipated around mid-September. The move reflects the administration's prioritisation of energy security and lower household energy bills over environmental objections to the project.

The approval marks a shift in the government's approach to North Sea drilling, accepting environmental trade-offs in pursuit of domestic energy production and cost relief for consumers. Alongside the Jackdaw decision, officials are also considering approval of the larger Rosebank oilfield later this year, though its environmental assessment remains incomplete. The dual approach signals the government's intent to expand fossil fuel extraction from UK waters.