Shadow energy minister criticises potential Jackdaw gas field decision delay

Shadow Secretary of State for Energy Security Andrew Bowie has called on Prime Minister Andy Burnham to avoid further hesitation regarding the future of the Jackdaw gas field. Bowie expressed concern that the decision may be postponed until after the upcoming by-election in the Holborn and St Pancras constituency, a move he described as unacceptable. The opposition figure argued that prioritising party interests over national security and economic stability would be detrimental to the country during a period of geopolitical uncertainty and industrial challenge.

It had been widely anticipated that the development would receive approval following a lengthy consultation process and years of legal disputes. However, Bowie claimed in a letter to the Prime Minister that the decision could be pushed back until after the by-election scheduled for October 8. The seat became vacant after Sir Keir Starmer announced his intention to stand down as a Member of Parliament. Bowie stated that if the delay is confirmed, it would represent placing the interests of the Labour Party before those of Great Britain. He emphasised the importance of maximising the recovery of domestic oil and gas from the North Sea to support jobs, growth, and energy security.

The shadow minister described the current consultation process as desperately slow and urged for a swift resolution with winter approaching. Bowie noted that when his party was in government, it approved both the Jackdaw gas field and the Rosebank oil field, citing their vital role in maintaining domestic gas supplies, high-skilled jobs, and necessary revenue. He pointed out that after Labour abandoned the legal challenge to proceed with these fields, the industry has been kept waiting for over two years. Bowie argued that if approved now, gas could flow directly into the British Gas Grid by winter, thereby reducing reliance on expensive imports and signalling that Britain is open for business.

In his correspondence, Bowie urged Burnham to put the interests of the country first, stating that uncertainty and delay are killing confidence in the energy industry and costing the nation significantly. He highlighted that it has been understood for some time that a decision is imminent and that there is no acceptable reason to postpone it further. Bowie referenced Burnham’s previous statements about making government more about problem-solving than point-scoring, suggesting that the current situation is an opportunity to demonstrate a commitment to national interests. He noted that workers are ready and equipment is in place, questioning whether the government will announce a decision before Parliament rises for recess or leave the industry with more uncertainty.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero responded to the claims by stating that it does not comment on speculation. A spokesperson for the department affirmed that the North Sea remains a vital national asset and that oil and gas will continue to play an important role in the energy system for decades to come. This will be alongside the transition to clean power to protect jobs and tackle the climate crisis. The spokesperson added that any decision will take into account all relevant evidence, including environmental assessments and public representations received during the consultation process. The government insisted there was no specific timeline for a decision and therefore no delay, pushing back against the narrative of postponement suggested by the opposition.