Cabinet split emerges over Rosebank oilfield decision

A cabinet split has emerged over whether to approve drilling at the Rosebank oilfield, with the chancellor, John Healey, in favour of the controversial North Sea project. The energy secretary, Miatta Fahnbulleh, is ultimately in charge of the decision, and the Guardian reported last week that she was leaning towards rejecting it after granting permission for the smaller Jackdaw gasfield.

It is understood that Healey backs approving the licence, which is on hold over concerns about the project's environmental impact. The prime minister would be expected to make the final call if there is conflict on the decision.

Fahnbulleh said the rationale behind Jackdaw did not apply to Rosebank, saying the UK would rely on gas as it made the transition to net zero and that it would be better to take it from relatively low-carbon sources in the North Sea than importing it. She said one is a gasfield for the domestic market while the other is an oilfield mainly for export, and that it is critical the decision is consistent with climate obligations, carbon budgets and the energy transition.

If the Rosebank field is rejected, it would be a blow for the North Sea energy industry and a major victory for climate campaigners. A final decision is expected before the end of the year. Officials say Fahnbulleh has not yet made her decision.

A spokesperson for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero said the department does not comment on speculation, that the North Sea remains a vital national asset, and that any decision will take into account all relevant evidence, including environmental assessments and public representations received during the consultation process.