Environmental lawyer, founder of Uplift; climate justice advocate
BP has announced it is marketing its North Sea business for sale to slim down the group and focus on higher‑value opportunities. The five-hub operation employs about 1,100 staff and produced around 117,000 boe/d in 2025. The move comes amid political and policy pressure over North Sea drilling and windfall taxation, with potential proceeds around £2 billion.
Ministers have received final consultations on the Rosebank oil and Jackdaw gas fields and are preparing a decision that will balance jobs and energy security against climate concerns. Labour figures, industry groups and environmental campaigners are pressing ministers from different angles as the regulator and Energy Secretary complete their reviews.
Labour faces pressure as Jackdaw and Rosebank projects edge closer to decisions. Experts warn that authorising new North Sea drilling would breach climate targets, while industry groups argue reforms could unlock billions. The government remains under scrutiny over energy policy and economic implications.
The government has weighed final consent for the Jackdaw gas field and the Rosebank oil field, amid pressure from climate advocates and industry groups. Officials say a decision is imminent, with Jackdaw potentially delivering gas this winter, and Rosebank’s fate tied to environmental assessments.