Badenoch: Labour Stalling on UK Oil and Gas Projects

Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch stated on August 21, 2026, that the Labour party is stalling progress on the Jackdaw and Rosebank oil and gas projects because their "heart's not really in it." Badenoch, speaking in a blog post, suggested that Labour's approach to these significant energy developments indicates a lack of genuine commitment to their advancement. This assertion comes amidst ongoing discussions about the UK's energy security and the role of domestic fossil fuel production in the national energy mix.

The Jackdaw field, operated by Shell, is a substantial gas discovery in the North Sea, estimated to hold around 1.7 trillion cubic feet of gas. Its development has been a point of contention, with proponents arguing it could significantly boost UK energy supply and reduce reliance on imports. Rosebank, another major North Sea oil and gas field, is operated by Equinor and is considered one of the largest undeveloped fields in the region. Both projects have faced scrutiny regarding their environmental impact and alignment with the UK's net-zero targets.

Badenoch's comments imply that Labour, if in power, would not prioritize or potentially would actively hinder the progression of these projects. This contrasts with the current government's stated aims to maximize domestic energy production while transitioning to renewable sources. The Business Secretary's remarks suggest a political divide on the future of North Sea oil and gas, with Labour potentially favoring a more accelerated phase-out of fossil fuel extraction.

The context for these remarks includes broader political debates about energy policy, economic growth, and environmental commitments. The government has been emphasizing its strategy of "powering up Britain" and ensuring energy security, which includes supporting new oil and gas licenses. Labour, while also acknowledging the need for energy security, has often signaled a stronger commitment to renewable energy and a faster transition away from fossil fuels, which could impact the viability and timeline of projects like Jackdaw and Rosebank. The specific reasons for Labour's alleged stalling, as per Badenoch, are rooted in their fundamental position on fossil fuel development, suggesting a deeper ideological difference rather than mere procedural delays.