The truth is that the UK’s oil and gas industry is being held back by short-sighted decisions. The Government's windfall tax has been extended to 2030, investment allowances have been cut, and regulatory uncertainty is driving companies to pause or cancel projects. This puts around 200,000 high-skilled, high-paid jobs at risk, particularly in communities that have long led the world in energy innovation. At the same time, Britain is becoming increasingly dependent on imported gas, including liquefied natural gas from Qatar, which comes at a higher environmental cost. Shutting down domestic production does nothing to reduce global emissions but undermines our energy security and the livelihoods of thousands of workers.
I believe we should take a different approach to supporting the North Sea industry. We should focus on maximising domestic extraction, end the ban on new oil and gas licences, and reverse restrictions on government support for the export of UK oil and gas technology. I believe these measures would unlock billions of barrels of oil and gas, create thousands of jobs, secure vital revenue for the Treasury, and rebuild confidence in the sector. This is not about ignoring the energy transition; it is about delivering it in a way that protects jobs, strengthens energy security, and ensures Britain’s economy benefits from our own resources.
Britain needs a Government that champions industry rather than letting it wither. I will continue to stand up for workers, investment, and a practical, balanced approach to energy. By combining strong support for the North Sea with realistic low-carbon policies, we can secure a prosperous future, maintain energy independence, and ensure that communities reliant on the industry are not left behind.
