Kemi Badenoch will visit a North Sea oil rig on Monday as she launches a campaign to boost UK oil and gas production. She criticised Labour for blocking new drilling licences, calling it “stupid” and “completely crazy,” especially amid the global energy uncertainty caused by the conflict in Iran.
Moreover, Badenoch argued that Britain must “maximise” domestic production to secure energy, financial stability, and national security. She said, “Drilling our own oil and gas is about energy security, it’s about financial security, it’s about national security. It creates jobs, supports business, and generates tax revenue that could lower bills.”
Meanwhile, the Tories have launched an advertising campaign highlighting the cost of Labour’s approach. They claim the current ban leaves 2.9 billion barrels untapped and risks 200,000 jobs. Furthermore, they propose replacing the North Sea Transition Authority with a new North Sea Authority focused solely on maximising extraction.
The Conservatives warn that continuing Labour’s policies could lead to higher energy bills, job losses, and slower economic growth. They also emphasise that by 2035, Britain could import up to 82% of its gas, leaving consumers vulnerable to global price shocks. In addition, they point out the risk of a disruption to transatlantic LNG supplies.
Meanwhile, unions and experts have highlighted the dangers of over-reliance on imported energy. A GMB spokesman said, “It is absolutely critical for the UK’s national security that we maintain a strong manufacturing base and a secure supply of domestic oil and gas. Relying on imports leaves us worryingly exposed.”
Badenoch stressed that the UK needs to act decisively. “We need to get Britain drilling. A strong economy relies on cheap, abundant energy,” she said. She added that domestic production will support jobs, protect households from rising bills, and strengthen Britain’s global standing.
As the debate intensifies, Labour has defended its approach as aligned with net-zero goals and environmental commitments. However, Tories argue that Britain cannot ignore the immediate energy crisis while pursuing long-term targets. Therefore, the battle over UK oil and gas drilling is likely to remain central in upcoming political debates.
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