North Sea Row Explodes As War Drives Push For More Drilling Britain’s energy battle has flared into a full-blown political clash, as industry leaders demand a return to North Sea drilling while ministers double down on green power. Trade body Offshore Energies UK has warned the UK must “urgently” ramp up domestic oil and gas production — or risk dangerous dependence on imports in an increasingly unstable world. The warning comes as the war involving Iran has sent global energy markets into turmoil, with disruption in the Strait of Hormuz pushing oil prices sharply higher. Industry: UK Playing A Dangerous GameOEUK argues the UK is exposing itself to price shocks by letting domestic production decline while demand remains high. Oil and gas still account for roughly three-quarters of the country’s energy needs, and the group insists they will remain critical for decades — even as renewables expand. Chief executive David Whitehouse warned that in times of crisis, cargoes can simply be diverted to higher bidders — leaving Britain short. Their message is blunt: produce more at home, or pay the price. Government: Drilling Won’t Cut BillsMinisters aren’t buying it. The government, led by Keir Starmer with energy policy driven by Ed Miliband, has banned new North Sea exploration licences — arguing more drilling won’t bring down costs. Their reasoning is simple: oil and gas are sold on global markets, meaning UK production doesn’t shield consumers from international price swings. Instead, Miliband says the crisis proves the need for “home-grown, clean power” — energy Britain can actually control. Tax War And £50bn GambleThe industry is also pushing for a major tax shake-up. It wants the controversial windfall tax scrapped early and replaced with a lower, price-triggered levy — arguing this could unlock up to £50 billion in investment. Critics, however, say this is less about national security and more about boosting profits during a period of high global prices. Environmental groups, including Greenpeace UK, warn that expanding drilling won’t cut bills but will increase fossil fuel dependence at the worst possible time. Political Battle Lines DrawnThe Conservatives have seized on the issue, calling for new licences and backing stalled projects like the Rosebank and Jackdaw fields. Shadow energy secretary Claire Coutinho blasted the government’s stance as “sheer lunacy” during a supply crisis. But academic research — including from University of Oxford — suggests the economic impact of more drilling would be limited, especially compared to accelerating renewables. A Defining Energy ChoiceAt its core, this is a fundamental strategic choice. Double down on domestic oil and gas to ride out global shocks — or break faster toward renewables to escape them entirely. With war driving prices up and energy security back at the top of the agenda, the pressure on the government is only going to intensify. SOURCE
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