Prime Minister Andy Burnham has been accused of delaying a decision on approving new drilling in the North Sea's Jackdaw oil field until after the upcoming Holborn and St Pancras by-election. The move has drawn sharp criticism, with opponents suggesting the decision is being postponed due to political considerations related to the election and the Green Party's growing influence.
Critics argue that the delay places the Labour Party's interests above national interests. Shadow energy secretary Andrew Bowie stated that the postponement is a "gross dereliction of duty" and accused Burnham of "placing the interests of the Labour Party before the interests of Great Britain." Bowie emphasized the economic benefits of restarting North Sea drilling, including job creation and a boost to the country's economy, as well as reducing reliance on expensive imports. He noted that if approved, gas could begin flowing into the British Gas Grid by winter, potentially supplying 1.4 million homes.
Harriet Cross, shadow Scotland secretary, called the delay "pathetic," arguing that prioritizing a by-election over energy security and jobs is unacceptable. She highlighted that the Jackdaw field could be operational this winter and support hundreds of jobs.
The upcoming Holborn and St Pancras by-election is seen as a significant contest, particularly for the Green Party, which has seen electoral gains in London. Green leader Zack Polanski confirmed that the climate crisis is a central issue in the election, stating that people in the constituency are particularly concerned about it. Polanski asserted that the evidence suggests the Jackdaw field would create only about 27 jobs and that fossil fuels should remain in the ground. He accused Labour of "running scared" and acting with "dishonesty and betrayal."
Unions have been advocating for the restart of North Sea oil and gas drilling to stimulate the economy and create employment. Burnham had been expected to address the Trade Unions Congress conference next week, where lifting the moratorium on drilling was anticipated. However, reports indicate the decision will now wait until after the by-election on October 8.
A Department of Energy Security and Net Zero spokesperson refuted claims of a delay, stating that no timeline for a decision on Jackdaw has been agreed upon.