We will make the net-zero transition work for Britain – approving the Jackdaw gasfield is part of the plan | Andy Burnham
Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh has approved the Jackdaw gasfield in the North Sea, which will increase domestic gas production by about 6% and support the UK's energy supply for over a decade.
The approval comes at a time of acute global instability, with gas from the field expected to begin heating homes and powering businesses this winter. The decision will protect hundreds of jobs in Scotland and add almost £3bn to the UK economy over the project's lifetime.
Climate commitments
Prime Minister Andy Burnham emphasized that the UK's determination to reach net zero by 2050 remains unwavering. He stated that oil and gas will still be needed for years as a bridge to a clean-energy future, noting that imported gas has a higher carbon footprint than domestically produced gas.
The transition to net zero is a process, not a moment. I want Britain to make that transition on our terms: reducing our dependence on foreign fossil fuels, supporting good jobs and growing our economy so we can help people with the cost of living.
Economic benefits
The government is establishing an energy wealth fund with an initial £2bn to convert future North Sea oil and gas tax revenues into clean-energy programs across the country. This investment aims to substantially delink gas and electricity prices by the end of the current parliament and reduce bills in the long term.
Burnham highlighted the importance of supporting oil and gas workers, many of whom have been affected by deindustrialization. He promised to reindustrialize Scotland and ensure the next generation of energy jobs is created across the UK.
Household support
The government is taking immediate action to ease pressure on household budgets. Burnham removed VAT from electricity bills in his first act as prime minister, and has now asked the chancellor and energy secretary to consider removing standing charges from gas bills at the earliest opportunity.
Burnham emphasized that the government is committed to reducing both gas and electricity bills as part of fundamental changes to the energy system, with the goal of bringing energy costs in line with European neighbors over the next decade.
Net zero path
The Labour manifesto committed to issuing no new oil or gas licences for new North Sea fields while maintaining the net zero target. Burnham stood by both promises, acknowledging the climate crisis is already affecting people's lives and livelihoods, as evidenced by the recent record-breaking summer with extreme weather events.
The government is pursuing a pragmatic approach that supports the current oil and gas industry while driving growth in clean-energy sectors. Burnham aims to make the transition work for people by creating good jobs, backing British industry, keeping bills low, and strengthening energy security.
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