Burnham says Jackdaw gasfield can bolster energy security and jobs during transition
Andy Burnham argues that approving production at the Jackdaw gasfield can support Britain’s energy security and jobs while the country continues towards net zero. He says the decision reflects the need for domestic gas during the transition, alongside investment in cleaner energy.
The article says Jackdaw could raise domestic gas production by about 6%, supply energy for more than a decade, protect hundreds of Scottish jobs and add almost £3bn to the UK economy. Burnham also describes a proposed £2bn energy wealth fund, financed by future North Sea tax revenues, to support clean-energy programmes and help separate gas and electricity prices; he says the government is considering removing gas standing charges.
In short
- Jackdaw approval is presented as support for energy security and jobs.
- The project could add almost £3bn to the UK economy.
- A proposed £2bn fund would back clean-energy programmes.
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The case for
Supporters argue that domestic gas can help keep energy supplies reliable and reduce reliance on imports while renewables and other low-carbon sources expand. They say Jackdaw could sustain skilled Scottish jobs and generate tax revenue for investment in cleaner energy, making managed production part of a practical transition rather than a departure from net zero.
The case against
Opponents argue that developing a new gasfield risks locking in fossil-fuel infrastructure and emissions when the UK needs to accelerate its shift to low-carbon energy. They may also question whether the gas would materially improve energy security or lower bills, given that gas is traded in wider markets, and argue that public investment and policy should instead prioritise renewables, efficiency and support for workers through the transition.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “We will make the net-zero transition work for Britain – approving the Jackdaw gasfield is part of the plan | Andy Burnham”.