Labour MPs clash over Rosebank oil field approval

More than a dozen Labour MPs have spoken out in Parliament against the proposed Rosebank oil field, warning that drilling is incompatible with the UK climate targets. Senior figures inside the party expect the project off the north-west coast of Shetland to be given the go-ahead, with oil and gas pumped up through a large ship 80 miles north-west of Shetland if approved. Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that a decision would be taken in due course, while Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh emphasized that the affordability of energy bills remains her overriding objective.

Parliament Debate and Divisions

During a Westminster Hall debate organized by Green MP Carla Denyer, several Labour politicians voiced strong opposition. Sheffield Central MP Abtisam Mohamed argued that the project fails on all tests, including taxpayer benefit, energy security, and lowering bills, while former frontbencher Richard Burgon called the project dangerous. Other critics included Anna Gelderd and Julia Buckley, who pointed to climate concerns and local flooding. A planned letter to Burnham opposing the project has gained support from over 60 of the roughly 400 Labour MPs, with one signatory arguing it fails to create new jobs or bring meaningful money to the Treasury. Conversely, supportive Labour MPs defended the project by pointing to economic benefits, energy security, and the danger of relying on imports. Supporters who spoke up included veterans minister Al Carns, Hartlepool MP Jonathan Brash, and Energy Security and Net Zero Committee chair Bill Esterson. Reports also suggest Chancellor John Healey is in favour of approval, and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch used Prime Minister's Questions to highlight internal party divisions.

Context

The UK government faces a fresh decision on Rosebank after the Court of Session in Edinburgh ruled previous approvals unlawful last year. The original licences for Rosebank and Jackdaw were granted by the Conservative government in 2022 and 2023, though Labour's 2024 manifesto pledged not to issue new exploration licences. Energy minister Michael Shanks stated that the government will take a pragmatic approach to clean energy without turning off domestic taps entirely.