The Conservative Party has unveiled a draft law to expand north sea drilling in the UK.
The party says the legislation will reduce legal barriers that delay new oil and gas projects. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said the Get Britain Drilling Now Bill will “stop lawfare and free our oil and gas industry.”
The bill proposes removing the requirement to consider downstream emissions in planning decisions. This change would reverse the ruling that blocked the Rosebank North Sea project.
The party claims that north sea drilling will secure reliable energy and help lower energy bills. Badenoch added that increased domestic production will reduce Britain’s reliance on foreign energy imports.
She said, “We need to get Britain drilling. It’s vital for energy, financial, and national security.” Badenoch also criticized Prime Minister Keir Starmer, saying he hides behind legal processes.
“The Conservatives have had enough,” she said, “We must allow the industry to create jobs and revenue.” The party said the bill supports its cheap power plan, promising £200 in household energy savings.
As part of the local elections campaign, the Tories also propose cutting VAT on domestic energy bills. They plan to scrap green taxes on power generation to further reduce costs.
Equinor previously received approval to develop Rosebank in 2023, but a court ruled it unlawful in 2025. The field lies about 80 miles northwest of Shetland and holds up to 300 million barrels of oil. The company, which owns the majority of Rosebank, resubmitted plans for approval last year.
The Conservatives argue legal uncertainty has left the North Sea industry unable to invest in future projects. Badenoch said the legislation will restore confidence and encourage investment in UK energy production. Shadow Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho attacked Labour, saying Ed Miliband’s policies weaken Britain’s energy security.
She added, “Labour allows activists to block projects while keeping Britain dependent on foreign imports.” Coutinho emphasized that north sea drilling will increase domestic supply and reduce costs for households. The party insists that removing planning obstacles will ensure Britain drills safely while creating jobs and revenue.
Finally, the Tories said their legislation provides a clear path for companies to invest in energy independence. Overall, the north sea drilling bill highlights the party’s plan to combine energy security with economic growth.
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