Protests as UK approves new gas drilling in North Sea

On October 21, 2026, the UK government approved drilling in the Jackdaw gas field in the North Sea, despite previous legal challenges and opposition from environmental groups. The decision came months after a Court of Appeal ruling that green-lighted production but was delayed due to political considerations. Prime Minister Andy Burnham argued that tapping into existing energy reserves would protect hundreds of jobs and help keep homes warm during an energy crisis. He stated the project, which is operated by Adura (a joint venture between Shell and Norwegian state energy firm Equinor), would strengthen UK energy security for more than a decade.

However, this approval drew criticism from Labour backbenchers and environmentalists, with climate activists protesting in response to the decision. Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump praised Burnham's decision, saying it would make the UK "a very rich country." Despite these approvals, the government remains committed to its pledge of blocking new North Sea licences for oil and gas exploration beyond Jackdaw. Environmental groups argue that this move hampers efforts to address climate change and makes no meaningful difference to energy security. Protests against the decision continued following its announcement.