UK PM Rishi Sunak supports new oil and gas exploration amid environmental concerns

London: UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has expressed his support for plans to proceed with new fossil fuel drilling off Britain's coast.

The British government is expected to grant approval for the development of Rosebank, believed to be the UK's largest undeveloped oil and gas field, near Scotland's Shetland Isles. Other sites in the nearby North Sea are also set to be greenlit soon. Environmental campaigners have voiced their frustration over the prospect, arguing that ceasing all new fossil fuel exploitation is crucial for Britain to achieve its goal of decarbonisation by mid-century.

In a recent interview with a Sunday newspaper, Sunak emphasised being "pragmatic and proportionate" in achieving the country's net-zero emissions target.

Critics have accused Prime Minister Sunak of lacking conviction on climate policies and playing politics with the issue in light of the approaching general election, amidst a cost-of-living crisis.

The main opposition party, Labour, which is currently leading in the polls, had announced earlier this year that it would not issue any new North Sea drilling licences if it comes to power after over a decade in opposition.

Responding to Labour's stance, Sunak asserted, "I think it makes absolutely no sense, as the Labour Party is suggesting, to ban North Sea oil and gas." He argued that such a move would weaken energy security and potentially strengthen the hands of dictators like Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Prime Minister further emphasised that 200,000 jobs and around £80 billion ($103 billion) worth of tax revenue would be at risk, reported AFP.

Sunak defended his approach to support the UK's energy industry, asserting that fossil fuels would be necessary during the transition to a net-zero economy. He warned that not exploiting new UK oil and gas reserves could jeopardise the energy supply in the country.

The comments follow the Conservative party's surprising victory in a July 20 parliamentary by-election for former Prime Minister Boris Johnson's vacated seat in northwest London. The victory is seen as a boost for Tory net zero opponents.

In the interview, Sunak also addressed the contentious issue of low-traffic neighbourhoods aimed at limiting vehicle use in designated areas. He ordered a review of these schemes, aligning with his stance in support of motorists.

Despite criticisms from climate campaigners and pressure groups, Sunak reiterated his commitment to improving the environment and climate while being pragmatic about the economic realities people face.