UK Labour government faces split over North Sea Rosebank and Jackdaw projects and oil‑gas worker transition fund

The UK Labour administration is under pressure over two major North Sea licences – the Rosebank oil field and the Jackdaw gas field. Chancellor Rachel Reeves has publicly backed approval of both projects, calling the North Sea “a crucial asset for the UK”. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, traditionally opposed to expanding offshore extraction, now faces a dilemma between ensuring energy security and meeting the party’s climate commitments.

At the same time, the UK and Scottish governments have announced a £6 million training fund to help more than 1,000 current and former oil‑gas workers retrain for roles in renewable energy and other sectors. Applications open next week. Scottish Conservative MSP Liam Kerr criticised the scheme, saying “Labour and the SNP have learned nothing… they should be getting Britain drilling again – not blocking it.” UK energy minister Michael Shanks said the programme is already oversubscribed and will support a “fair and prosperous transition in the North Sea”.

The dispute highlights a broader test for Labour’s energy policy, as it balances industry interests, voter concerns about energy prices, and its own green agenda.