BUNGLING Ed Miliband has rewritten green rules to kick-start the approval of two new oil and gas fields.
The eco zealot Energy Secretary today published updated legal guidance, paving the way for Rosebank and Jackdaw to seek permission to start drilling.
The projects received approval during the former Tory administration but were subsequently halted by the Supreme Court following a victorious legal challenge from environmental activists.
They accused ministers of failing to consider the emissions that would come from drilling rather than just those stemming from production.
Currently, Red Ed has been tasked with revising government regulations on emissions assessment to provide oil and gas companies with greater assurance when seeking a license.
The move could lead to Rosebank and Jackdaw being given the go-ahead as soon as Autumn.
Energy Minister Michael Shanks stated: “This updated guidance provides direction for the North Sea oil and gas sector after last year’s Supreme Court decision.”
“It marks a step forward in ensuring the full implications of oil and gas extraction are considered for potential projects and that we ensure a managed, prosperous, and orderly transition to the North Sea’s clean energy future, in line with the science.
“We are working with industry, trade unions, local communities and environmental groups to ensure the North Sea and its workers are at the heart of Britain’s clean energy future for decades to come – supporting well-paid, skilled jobs, driving growth and boosting our energy security.”
Jackdaw field, near Aberdeen, is estimated to provide six per cent of the UK’s entire gas output once up and running.
Rosebank will mainly produce oil to be exported, with the Treasury benefiting from tax revenues.
The move could open the door to more oil and gas fields applying for licences – despite Mr Miliband’s vow of no new approvals.
Reform Deputy Leader Richard Tice accused the Energy Secretary of getting a grip over guidance “out of fear”.
He blasted: “Labour fears losing votes to Reform UK, as more and more voters grow disillusioned with Labour’s weak leadership and repeated abandonment of their campaign promises.
“Only Reform will truly scrap Net Zero, prioritise oil drilling, and invest in nuclear modular reactors.
“We are the party that will reduce energy bills, slash waste, and make work pay again.”
Last night Sir Keir Starmer doubled down on his Net Zero mission.
He told Talk: “The long term aims here and our intention is going to renewables, which are cheaper.
“We have control over their security and therefore we’re not affected when there’s international conflict.”
