Britain risks a wave of job losses across Scotland and the North East unless it continues exploiting remaining North Sea oil and gas reserves, business leaders have warned, piling pressure on Andy Burnham as key energy decisions loom. The intervention comes as the future of the Jackdaw and Rosebank oil and gas fields moves closer to the political spotlight, with industry figures arguing that shutting down domestic production too quickly could leave communities exposed and deepen economic strains. Business Sounds Alarm Over Energy Transition Shevaun Haviland, director-general of the British Chambers of Commerce, said Britain should continue using its own energy resources rather than relying on imported fuel. She argued that importing liquefied natural gas is both more expensive and, in many cases, carries a higher environmental cost. While backing the transition to clean energy, Haviland warned that the shift is not creating jobs fast enough to replace those disappearing from the oil and gas sector. ‘A Dangerous Gap’ Opens Up The BCC says suppliers linked to North Sea operations are already feeling the squeeze. Businesses in Aberdeen and across north-east Scotland fear a repeat of the industrial decline that devastated former coal-mining communities. Haviland said offshore wind represents a major opportunity, but claimed Britain has failed to build a strong enough domestic supply chain. As a result, jobs and investment risk flowing overseas while traditional energy employment declines. Cost Pressures Add To The Crisis The warning comes against a backdrop of rising business costs. According to BCC research, the cost of doing business has increased by around 70% over the past decade, driven by taxes, regulation, energy prices and post-Brexit trade frictions. Business groups argue that mounting costs are suppressing investment and slowing economic growth at a time when companies need confidence to expand and hire. North Sea Decision Becomes Political Test The fate of Jackdaw and Rosebank is emerging as an early test of how a future Burnham government would balance economic growth with climate commitments. Environmental campaigners oppose new fossil fuel developments, while industry leaders insist a rapid shutdown risks economic damage without delivering immediate alternatives. With jobs, energy security and net-zero ambitions now colliding, the decision could become one of the defining political battles of the months ahead. Exploit last North Sea oil and gas or risk mass job losses, Andy Burnham urged
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