A coalition of UK energy producers, manufacturers, and trade unions has sent a letter to all 403 Labour MPs arguing that continued North Sea oil and gas development is essential for energy security and industrial competitiveness. The group warns that cutting domestic production would increase reliance on imports while the UK still needs oil and gas for decades. The letter, organized by Offshore Energies UK, calls for an all-energy approach that maintains domestic production alongside investment in renewables and low-carbon tech. Industry leaders from chemicals, engineering, and shipping sectors signed on, along with the GMB union. They say affordable domestic energy is critical for manufacturing and protecting jobs. The push comes as the UK government weighs future North Sea policies. Critics argue the position conflicts with climate targets, while supporters say domestic production has lower emissions than imported alternatives. The debate highlights the tension between energy transition goals and near-term energy needs.
