Story perspectives

Labour Divided Over Jackdaw Approval Amid Rising Fuel Costs

4/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband's department says claims he will approve the Jackdaw field are unfounded.
Labour MPs are divided on North Sea drilling as fuel costs rise during the Iran conflict.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves backs Jackdaw and Rosebank for jobs and tax revenue, while others oppose further fossil-fuel use.
Research shows Jackdaw would contribute minimally to UK gas production.
Approval could align Labour with Conservative and Reform UK drilling positions.

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Story summary

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband's department says claims he will approve the Jackdaw field are unfounded.
Labour MPs are divided on North Sea drilling as fuel costs rise during the Iran conflict.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves backs Jackdaw and Rosebank for jobs and tax revenue, while others oppose further fossil-fuel use.
Research shows Jackdaw would contribute minimally to UK gas production.
Approval could align Labour with Conservative and Reform UK drilling positions.